Arteta's perfect transfer to prevent Arsenal title collapse should be this Chelsea legend

Suraj Radia

• 17 Dec 2025 11:48 GMT
• 4 min read

Analysis

Mikel Arteta could make a shock move for a Chelsea fan favourite in a deal that could solve Arsenal’s defensive crisis and potentially give them an edge in the Premier League title race.

The Gunners dealt with injuries to a number of key defenders in recent weeks, with Ben White the latest player to be ruled out after suffering a hamstring issue that will keep him out of action for a month.

With the likes of Gabriel and Cristhian Mosquera also sidelined, Arsenal are set to enter the busiest period of the season with a concerning lack of depth despite investing significant resources during the summer to try and avoid such a problem.

As such, Arteta may be forced to dip into the transfer market in January to ensure that there is no repeat of previous campaigns, which have seen Arsenal’s Premier League challenges collapse due to injuries suffered in the second half of the season.

However, with Arsenal having spent nearly €300 million on players during the summer, Arteta will not have much money to play with in January unless a sale is made, which would only further thin out his squad.

Instead, Arteta could find the perfect solution in a former Chelsea star who is keen to return to London after becoming available on a free transfer.

Thiago Silva could be Arsenal’s leader in Premier League title push

According to Brazilian outlet ge globo, Thiago Silva is prioritising a move closer to his family in London following the expiry of his contract at Fluminense this month.

The 41-year-old excelled for his boyhood club after joining them in 2024 and is still considered an elite player despite his age, with plenty of teams across Europe ready to sign the defender on a short-term contract.

Silva spent four years at Chelsea prior to joining Fluminense and he became a modern legend for the club, becoming the team’s captain and endearing himself to supporters with his class on the pitch and his conduct off it.

STATS

Thiago Silva  

D (C)

Fluminense

Thiago Silva  

D (C)

Fluminense

All Tournaments

2025

• 41

  Games

• 4

  Goals

• 1

  Assists

View all stats

The Brazil international is still dreaming of featuring at next summer’s World Cup, having been a standout performer for Fluminense, while his fitness remains at a high level, making Silva an intriguing option to immediately slot in for any team.

With Arsenal not needing a long-term option anyway, Silva’s experience and pedigree may provide some crucial leadership as Arteta’s side look to hold their nerve to secure their first Premier League title in more than 20 years.

While the deal may prove controversial considering Silva’s Chelsea links, Arsenal could do a lot worse if they wish to find a quick and cost-effective solution to a problem which could otherwise destabilise their title bid.

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