Chelsea are exploring the possibility of signing Brighton & Hove Albion forward Danny Welbeck, according to The Athletic. The 35-year-old, who has one year remaining on his current contract, is being considered as an experienced addition to the Blues’ squad.
Chelsea have recently shown interest in bringing in veteran players, having previously explored moves for Granit Xhaka and John Stones. Welbeck would represent a similar profile, offering experience and leadership to a young Chelsea team that has focused heavily on recruiting adolescent talent. The last player Chelsea signed at a similar age was Thiago Silva in 2020, who arrived from Paris Saint-Germain at 35 years and 11 months old.
Welbeck progressed through the Manchester United academy, playing for the club between 2001 and 2014, with a loan spell at Sunderland in between. He subsequently joined Arsenal (2014-2019) before spells at Watford and Brighton, joining the Seagulls in 2020. He is approaching his 19th season in the English top flight, having accumulated over 400 Premier League appearances. His recent form has been particularly strong, improving his goalscoring record in successive seasons, netting 10 goals in the 2023-24 campaign and 13 last season. Brighton and Welbeck are aware of Chelsea’s interest, despite the Blues not qualifying for European competition next season.
Chelsea are also considering options for several existing attackers, including Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson, and Emmanuel Emegha, with potential loan or permanent departures. The potential arrival of Welbeck would likely increase the chances of these players leaving Stamford Bridge. Emegha, who recently joined the club from RCSA, could be among those affected, potentially being considered for a loan spell, with Strasbourg mentioned as a possible destination. Welbeck’s arrival could provide a more experienced option up front, potentially limiting opportunities for younger players like Marc Guiu, who is already available for transfer.
