Thiago Silva optimistic about Milan next season

Thiago Silva has insisted that he has never considered leaving AC Milan, despite firm interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

The French giants made a €47m (£37m) move for the defender, with a transfer looking likely at various points.

However, after a series of discussions, Milan decided against selling the Brazilian. There was a severe backlash from fans after transfer negotiations were made public - something that seemed to influence Milan's decision.

"I never thought about leaving Milan, but it is only normal that offers from other clubs arrive," he told the Gazzetta dello Sport. "I spoke with director Leonardo and he showed me the project at Paris Saint-Germain.

"I also spoke to PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti, who told me that their objective was to become one of the greatest clubs in Europe. I held talks with vice-president Adriano Galliani and thanked him for the great faith that he has in me," he continued.

"My teammates such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho, Antonio Cassano, Alexandre Pato and Mario Yepes, players I'm close to, also advised me to stay at Milan. I believe in the strength of Milan for the new season. There have been small changes and we'll be even more familiar with each other."

Silva was recently given a new contract with improved terms by Milan.