Chelsea have officially announced the acquisition of Danny Welbeck from Brighton & Hove Albion. The striker has signed a two-year contract with the Blues, bringing valuable experience to Xabi Alonso’s team.
The 35-year-old, who previously played for Manchester United and Arsenal, has pledged his future to the west London club until 2028 and is anticipated to join his new teammates for the pre-season tour.
Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat against Tottenham in Sydney, Australia on Saturday.
They are set to travel to Hong Kong to compete against Juventus on Wednesday, August 5. Alonso’s squad commenced their summer campaign with a 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers on Tuesday.
In a statement confirming his departure, Brighton stated, “Brighton & Hove Albion can confirm that Danny Welbeck has joined Chelsea for undisclosed terms, concluding a successful and memorable six-year tenure with the club.
“The former Manchester United, Arsenal, and England striker joined after leaving Watford in October 2020, quickly establishing himself as a key figure both on and off the pitch, significantly contributing during one of the most successful eras in our history.”
In a statement regarding his arrival, Chelsea expressed, “Chelsea is pleased to announce the signing of Danny Welbeck from Premier League club Brighton and Hove Albion. The striker, who has earned 42 caps for England, has signed a contract until 2028 and will integrate into Xabi Alonso’s squad during our pre-season tour.
“In addition to his on-field abilities, he served as a vital leader within the squad and a role model for our younger players. We appreciate all he has contributed to the club and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Upon joining the club, Welbeck remarked: “When you learn of Chelsea’s interest, it fills you with immense pride. Understanding Chelsea’s history, it is a club that aims to win trophies and strives to achieve that every season.”
Alonso and the club’s sporting directors are targeting what sources describe as ‘ready-made’ players this summer, with Chelsea’s failed bid for Granit Xhaka earlier this window an indication of the change in recruitment strategy. Chelsea are also in talks over a move for 36-year-old Jordan Henderson.
Brentford are willing to let Henderson leave on a free transfer despite the former Liverpool midfielder having a year remaining on his contract with the west London club. Henderson has 463 Premier League appearances to his name while Welbeck has exactly 400 to his name.
