Thiago Silva has suggested that he has no plans to disclose his feelings over his Chelsea future.
When the defender arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2020, the expectation was that he would perhaps play one or two seasons before returning to his homeland.
However, at the age of 39, the Brazil international remains one of the first names on the team sheet, featuring on 125 occasions for the Blues in all competitions.
A Champions League trophy was won during his first season with the club, although the change of ownership has destabilised Chelsea and left them as a mid-table side, at least in the short term.
Nevertheless, Silva has, so far, played every minute of Chelsea's Premier League matches during 2023-24 under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
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That is despite the acquisitions of new players, with the integration of Levi Colwill and Pochettino largely using a back four rather than a back three.
Silva's last contract was penned in February - when Graham Potter was still at the helm - and it is unclear whether fresh terms will be handed to the veteran.
Speaking to Esporte Espetacular, Silva has attempted to remain coy over his plans for the future or whether he expects to be offered a new contract.
He said: "This is a long-standing relationship, right? But I'd rather keep quiet at the moment, because it's been controversial in the recent past.
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"I have a family now, I have children. So we have to think about that too. But it's about seeing where things can bring us happiness, to finish off this beautiful and victorious career that I believe I've had."
In the past, it has been believed that Silva has had plans to end his career with Brazilian side Fluminense, where he featured in the youth ranks and represented between 2007 and 2009.
Fluminense are currently in seventh place in the top-flight standings and are bidding to secure Copa Libertadores football for next season.
Silva will be in a position to hold discussions with foreign clubs if he does not pen a new contract with Chelsea by the turn of the year.
Darren Plant
