Chelsea exploring Danny Welbeck move | OneFootball

According to NY Times, Chelsea are exploring a move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck. Brighton are aware, and the 35-year-old has 12 months left on his contract. Talks are at an early stage, though there is optimism that a deal could be done.

Welbeck appeals to manager Xabi Alonso for his play and leadership. He played in 37 of Brighton’s 38 league games last season, scoring 13, his best Premier League return. He has 51 goals in 201 Brighton appearances since joining from Watford in 2020.

After a run of under-25 recruits, Chelsea have targeted more Premier League-ready options. They attempted a move for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, 33, and have shown interest in free agent John Stones, 32.

Any Welbeck arrival would sharpen decisions on the striker group. Chelsea are weighing keep, sell or loan calls on Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap and Emmanuel Emegha. Marc Guiu is expected to leave on loan or permanently.

The Athletic reported that at the end of the 2025 summer window Manchester United explored bringing Welbeck back, having been interested a year earlier under Erik ten Hag. He began at United, then scored 32 in 126 for Arsenal before spells at Watford and Brighton.

Last season he converted 23 per cent of shots, with 50 per cent on target, among players with 30 or more attempts. His movement and link-up suit quick combinations, and he offers leadership for a young Chelsea squad.

Source: NY Times