Silva seals PSG renewal

Paris Saint-Germain captain Thiago Silva has signed a two-year contract extension running until June 2020, the Ligue 1 champions have confirmed.

Silva’s future was a source of mounting speculation over recent months and Juventus chief executive Giuseppe Marotta stated in October that the Brazil defender was of interest to the Serie A champions.

But the 32-year-old maintained that he was keen to renew his association with a club he joined in 2012.

Nine major domestic titles, including four consecutive Ligue 1 crowns followed his switch from AC Milan and the centre-back is convinced more success is on the way despite a patchy first half to Unai Emery’s maiden campaign in charge at Parc des Princes.

“It’s an immense pleasure to extend my contract with Paris Saint-Germain,” Silva told PSG’s official website.

“Here, I have found a marvellous club where I can thrive. I am very proud to be the captain of this team, which has won everything in France in the last two seasons and which has also earned respect from across Europe thanks to its performances in the Champions League.

“We still have some very big dreams to fulfil. I’m convinced that we’ll manage to do that and will continue to make our fans happy.”

Silva was on the scoresheet as PSG returned to winning ways with a 5-0 victory over against lowly Lorient on Wednesday and they lie third in Ligue 1, five points behind leaders Nice heading into the mid-season break.

PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi said: “I’m very happy with Thiago Silva’s contract extension. He’s an extraordinary captain through his reading of the game and his authority on the pitch.

“Our fans have always appreciated his exemplary combativeness. His presence will continue to help the club improve.

“Since his arrival, Thiago has made a real mark on Paris Saint-Germain’s history. Between PSG and its captain, some great pages remain to be written.”