Manchester United are weighing up their options to strengthen their attack this summer, and one former player who should be considered is Danny Welbeck. The 35-year-old striker, who came through United's academy, scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season for Brighton and could provide valuable backup to Benjamin Sesko.
Michael Carrick's Praise for Welbeck
Michael Carrick, the United manager, spoke warmly about Welbeck at a press conference near the end of last season. "He's scored against us too many times," Carrick said. "I still call him 'my lad'. He's an old man now, which makes me feel old. Huge respect for him. It's terrific that he came through here and made a massive impact." Carrick added: "For him to go on and have the career he's had and still be playing so well at the age he is shows his mindset and his attitude and all those things enable you to play to 35. He deserves a lot of credit for that, and I'm really delighted, genuinely, to see him doing so well."
Welbeck's Impressive Season
Welbeck was part of United's 2012/2013 Premier League title-winning side before moving to Arsenal in 2014. Last season, he scored 13 goals in the top flight, prompting even Wayne Rooney to suggest he deserved an England recall. Speaking in November, Rooney said: "He scores goals, he works hard, he's having a purple patch and he's put himself in a position where Thomas Tuchel will definitely have to look at him. Behind Harry Kane he is the most in-form England striker. He's given himself a chance." Rooney also noted: "I said last season Manchester United should have brought him back."
A Backup Role at United
United are set to compete in four competitions next season after securing a return to the Champions League. With only Sesko as a recognised striker, the squad would be exposed if he gets injured. Welbeck, despite being 35, showed no signs of slowing down and would be a perfect backup option. Brighton triggered a 12-month contract extension recently, but the club might not stand in his way if United make an offer and Welbeck wants to return.
Other Options and Concerns
United manager Carrick could also use Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, or Amad through the middle, while Joshua Zirkzee started up front against Sunderland in May. However, Zirkzee's performance confirmed he is not a centre-forward. United won 4-2 when Brighton visited Old Trafford in October, but Welbeck scored a free-kick to make the end nervy. It was his eighth goal against United, and some fans may have murmured "we should never have sold him."
While a move for Welbeck seems unlikely given his age and Brighton's contract extension, football has a tendency to surprise. The romance of finishing his career where it began could draw him back, and United could benefit from his experience and goal-scoring ability.
