Chelsea are concluding a deal for Brighton forward Danny Welbeck, with the 35-year-old granted leave to undergo a medical examination at Stamford Bridge. Welbeck is expected to sign a two-year deal and join the squad for their pre-season tour in Hong Kong next week.
This transfer aligns with manager Xabi Alonso’s strategy to integrate more veteran presence into a squad that has ranked as the youngest in the Premier League for two consecutive seasons. The club’s recent reliance on youth has been blamed for their struggles to compete for significant titles. Following a finish in 10th place last year, co-owner Behdad Eghbali suggested adjustments to their transfer policy were necessary.
The club is actively pursuing veteran talent, including potential deals for 34-year-old midfielder Granit Xhaka and 36-year-old Jordan Henderson. Additionally, they have secured 26-year-old defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace and 21-year-old Marco Palestra from Atalanta. Welbeck, who previously played for Manchester United and Arsenal, brings a record of 90 goals in 400 top-flight games. His arrival signals a restructuring of Chelsea’s attacking options, with players such as Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap, and Marc Guiu potentially being moved on.
