Chelsea center-back Thiago Silva is set to depart from top-flight European competition at the end of the season to return to his native Brazil.

The 39-year-old defender is reportedly set to sign with his boyhood club, Rio de Janeiro-based Fluminense FC, according to Italian football journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Both sides plan is to finalize the signing in the coming weeks, with the deal set to be valid until June 2026.

Official documents have not been signed yet, but there's a verbal agreement in place, and contracts are already being prepared.

Silva previously played for Fluminense's youth teams from 1998 to 2000, and their first team from 2006 to 2009.

One of the greatest defenders of his generation, Silva announced at the end of April that he would be departing Chelsea after four years, delivering an emotional message on a video posted on the club's social media accounts.

Thiago Silva may have played his final game for Chelsea

Silva's farewell games with Chelsea may have been cut short due to a setback.

The Brazilian sustained a groin injury during their 2-2 draw against Aston Villa last Saturday, April 27.

It is unclear if Silva will be able to return, as he is currently undergoing tests to determine whether he can play again for the final four Premier League games left in the season.

The center back is best known for his time with Paris Saint-Germain from 2012 to 2020, as well as AC Milan from 2009 to 2012. He has also served as captain for the Brazil national football team on numerous occasions.