FC Porto are on the verge of securing an eye-catching short-term signing, with reports from Fabrizio Romano indicating that Thiago Silva is set to return to Europe with the Portuguese side as planned.
The veteran Brazilian centre-back would sign a deal until June 2026 with an option to extend to June 2027, providing newly appointed coach Francesco Farioli with a wealth of experience at the heart of his defence. The move is understood to be strongly backed by Porto president André Villas-Boas, who has made Silva a priority target in the January window.
At 41 years old, Silva’s career has spanned almost two decades at the highest level. A product of Fluminense’s youth system, he made early European forays with Porto’s B team before rising to prominence at AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. His most recent club was Fluminense, where he continued to demonstrate remarkable durability and leadership, making 46 appearances last season and helping his side reach the semifinals of the Club World Cup.
Transfermarkt’s data underlines Silva’s ongoing reliability: throughout his career he has consistently played at least 30 matches per season, peaking with 58 appearances in 2024 split between Chelsea and Fluminense and maintaining form deep into his 30s. While full statistical breakdowns for Porto’s season aren’t yet recorded, his recent campaign reflects fitness and match sharpness even at an advanced age for a defender.
The proposed deal is not yet official, but if completed it would mark a remarkable return for Silva to European football — one that closes a full circle from his early days at Porto’s academy ranks. For Porto, the acquisition of Silva offers immediate defensive reinforcement and leadership, with the Brazilian’s experience seen as a valuable asset in both domestic title ambitions and potential European fixtures.
For Silva himself, the move represents one last chance to compete at a high level in Europe. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, regular minutes at Porto could keep him in the conversation for a national team recall, something the veteran has not ruled out in recent months. Beyond the pitch, Silva’s presence could provide mentorship for younger defenders while giving Porto a marquee name that boosts both profile and potential performance.
Ultimately, this planned signing — even if short-term — highlights how veteran experience is still prized in modern football and offers Silva a fitting new chapter in a storied career.
