Chelsea have opened discussions with Brighton to sign veteran forward Danny Welbeck, according to reports. The 35-year-old is keen on the move to Stamford Bridge, where he would link up with manager Xabi Alonso.
The potential transfer follows a failed attempt by Erik ten Hag to bring Welbeck back to Manchester United in 2024. Ten Hag identified the former academy product as an ideal replacement for Anthony Martial, praising his conditioning, clinical finishing, and leadership.
United Board Overruled Ten Hag's Request
However, United's hierarchy rejected the manager's request to add veteran experience to the attack. According to The Athletic, the club considered signing Welbeck after Ten Hag's recommendation but ultimately did not table an offer during a summer of significant change above the manager, with his own position at risk.
Welbeck responded to the speculation in an interview with The Times shortly after the reports emerged. "It's speculation and there's always that link for me because I've been at the club," he said. "As I said, I'm just focusing on what I can control myself and all the other stuff is pretty irrelevant."
United Focused on Younger Talent Instead
United instead turned their attention to younger players, signing Benjamin Sesko last summer at age 22. While the club has been reportedly interested in bringing in an experienced striker this summer, no deals have materialised, with Michael Carrick's three additions focused on goalkeeping and midfield.
Welbeck, meanwhile, is poised to join Chelsea. The former England international, who was considered for a World Cup squad place this summer, scored a personal best of 13 Premier League goals last season.
Gary Neville: Welbeck Should Never Have Left United
United legend Gary Neville believes Welbeck should never have been sold by the club. "Danny Welbeck, to be fair, should never have been let go at United," Neville said on the Stick to Football podcast. "If you've got a squad of 24, 23, and you want to keep five or six strikers, he's got to be one of those. You've got to keep him."
Welbeck was sold by Louis van Gaal to Arsenal for £16 million in 2014.
