West Ham United have a long history of players who have featured for both themselves and Chelsea over the years.
In the modern era, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole are the standout names, both enjoying successful spells with the Hammers before going on to make even bigger impacts at Stamford Bridge.
Looking further back, legends like Jimmy Greaves and Peter Brabrook also left their mark at both clubs, cementing a shared heritage.
Other names include Scott Parker, Demba Ba, Jon Harley, Ian Pearce, Scott Minto, Clive Allen, Yossi Benayoun, and Carlton Cole — a list that underscores just how frequently talent has moved between the two London sides.
Now, West Ham could be on the verge of adding another high-profile name to that list.
West Ham Lead Race for Thiago Silva
West Ham are reportedly among the leading contenders to bring veteran defender Thiago Silva back to the Premier League.
The 41-year-old spent four years at Chelsea before leaving Stamford Bridge last year when his contract expired. He subsequently returned to Brazil, signing a two-year deal with Fluminense in July 2024.
Despite initial plans to retire with his boyhood club, Silva has reportedly said his farewells to teammates, sparking rumours of an early exit from Fluminense.
According to Globo Esporte, the Brazilian is keen to return to Europe to be closer to his children, who remain in London while continuing with Chelsea’s academy.
If Silva returns to England, a London-based club appears most likely, with West Ham, Fulham, Crystal Palace, and Brentford all identified by Sport Bible as “favourites.”
Italian outlets have also linked him with a return to AC Milan, while transfer expert Fabrizio Romano notes potential options in the Middle East or MLS.
For West Ham, Silva’s experience and leadership could be invaluable as they seek to tighten a defence that has conceded 32 goals in 16 Premier League games this season.
