Chelsea close to signing Brighton striker Danny Welbeck | OneFootball

Chelsea are close to signing Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Blues are looking to add more experience and leadership to their attacking options and have identified Welbeck as an ideal target.

The England international has agreed personal terms with Chelsea, and the deal could be finalised this week.

Welbeck is expected to provide cover for Joao Pedro, who was Chelsea’s top scorer across all competitions last term.

The 35-year-old’s arrival could affect the futures of Emmanuel Emegha and Liam Delap. Chelsea are understood to be willing to listen to suitable offers for the two forwards.

Nicolas Jackson is expected to leave as well, with Aston Villa leading the race to sign the Senegal international.

Welbeck scored 13 goals and provided one assist in 37 Premier League games last season. Only Joao Pedro and Enzo Fernandez recorded more league goal involvements for Chelsea last season than the Englishman managed for Brighton.

Welbeck no longer has the pace that he had earlier in his career, but would add big-game experience, work rate and leadership to Xabi Alonso’s side.

Welbeck’s availability record also adds to his appeal, missing just six games through injury in the last two seasons.

A potential move to Chelsea offers him the chance to prove himself at a top club again, having previously failed to succeed at Manchester United and Arsenal.

Chelsea are also reportedly close to signing England international Jordan Henderson on a free transfer as they seek to add more experience to their midfield.

Stats from Transfermarkt