By Francis Onyach - Reporter
November, 21 2025- AC Milan are actively seeking reinforcements in central defense for the January transfer window, and the surprising name at the top of their shortlist is 41-year-old Brazilian legend Thiago Silva, according to reports from outlets including La Gazzetta dello Sport and La Repubblica.
The news has sparked widespread discussion in Italy and beyond, linking the veteran—now an important figure at Fluminense in Brazil to a sensational return to the San Siro more than a decade after his departure.
Why Milan Wants Thiago Silva
Milan’s current centre-back group, composed of Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlović, Fikayo Tomori, Konrad de Winter, and the inexperienced Jan-Carlo Odogu, has left club management searching for an experienced figure to stabilize the back line as they push for trophies this season.
Attempts to sign defenders like Manuel Akanji and Joe Gomez in previous windows proved unsuccessful, leaving the door open for a bold move this January.
Silva’s leadership, vast experience, and previous time with current coach Massimiliano Allegri are seen as major assets. Despite his age, Silva remains a regular starter for Fluminense, having made 41 appearances and scored three goals this season, while helping the club achieve success in major tournaments such as the Club World Cup.
Club directors believe his return could offer immediate improvements and vital leadership on and off the pitch. Thiago Silva is under contract with Fluminense until June 2026, but reports suggest that both club and player could consider an early departure in January if Milan’s interest becomes concrete.
Fluminense is reportedly aware of Milan’s interest and would be willing to negotiate if Silva requests a contract termination. However, his agent has recently emphasized that the Brazilian intends to honor his commitment to Fluminense, at least in the short term.
While Silva is viewed as a prime target, Milan is also considering other defensive options, as the need for depth is urgent due to Odogu’s likely loan departure and concerns about squad experience. Thomas Kristensen of Udinese and Joe Gomez of Liverpool remain on the club’s radar, but Silva’s profile as a seasoned leader appeals most to the current club strategy.
Thiago Silva remains one of Milan’s most beloved ex-players, having helped the Rossoneri win Serie A and the Supercoppa before departing for PSG in 2012. Both the club and player have frequently spoken about their mutual respect and the possibility of a late-career reunion.
Silva himself has stated that Milan “will always be in my heart,” and that a return would be “amazing,” though any such deal would likely be for the short term given his age and the physical demands at the top level.
The legend’s return remains an emotional and pragmatic target, though negotiations will require overcoming contractual and personal commitments in Brazil. Whether this reunion materializes, it’s clear that Milan is determined to strengthen their back line, Thiago Silva or not.
