Of all the tasks at the door of the recruitment team this summer at Chelsea, replacing one of their top players of the last four seasons is clearly high up the list.

The Blues have said goodbye to Thiago Silva after a sensational spell at the club, where he remained a starter just months ahead of his 40th birthday.

He has now returned to Brazil and Flamengo, where he already broke a football record in his country for the amount of people who showed up to his unveiling.

Silva’s departure not only leaves a void of a talented player at the back, but also a leader amongst a relatively inexperienced defensive line.

When it comes to trying to replace that, there is a clear candidate in European football who is now available on a free transfer.

Chelsea should sign Mats Hummels

After defeat in the Champions League final just weeks ago, it has since emerged that Mats Hummels’ time at Borussia Dortmund has come to an end.

At 35 years of age, it is clear that he has perhaps two or three more seasons at the top level left in him, and Chelsea should put themselves in the conversation to make it happen at Stamford Bridge.

Bringing in someone with the experience levels of Hummels would no doubt be brilliant for the likes of Levi Colwill, who is set for a long and prestigous career in West London.

The Blues have already looked to bolster their defensive numbers with the addition of Tosin Adarabioyo, who they snapped up ahead of rival sides on a free transfer.

However, it can’t be underestimated how important having someone with experience is, even if it is not to play every game of the season.

When looking at who is available right now, there is not a better name out there than Hummels.