The Athletic has also reported that Chelsea are keen on a 2026 summer deal for Welbeck, who is under contract at Brighton until the summer of 2027.
While Joao Pedro will be the first-choice forward at Chelsea next season, Alonso wants an experienced back-up. Bailey has reported that the former Real Madrid manager values Welbeck’s ‘experience, professionalism and ability to influence games both on and off the pitch’. Romano said on his YouTube channel: “According to my information, Xabi Alonso is discussing internally with Chelsea owners and directors about this possibility to include an experience striker as a back-up option, and Danny Welbeck is seen as the ideal candidate for this opportunity. “The understanding is that the player is keen on the move. “So, Danny Welbeck is aware of Xabi Alonso mentioning his name as a possibility, and Danny Welbeck would like to go to Chelsea. “So, it’s a serious, serious chance, a serious possibility to see Danny Welbeck as a new Chelsea striker in this summer transfer window.”
Jacobs posted about the 35-year-old Welbeck on X at 1:59pm on July 27: “Chelsea are in talks for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck, as @kierangill_DM called. “Brighton aware of Chelsea’s interest, and that Welbeck is keen on the move. “Into the last year of his current contract. Jacobs added at 2:37pm: “Chelsea are optimistic on closing a deal to sign Danny Welbeck. “Talks already progressing and Welbeck keen on the move.”
Partly due to a lack of experience, Chelsea finished 10th in the 2025/26 season, missing out on European football altogether. Following their struggles last season and following the appointment of Xabi Alonso, it appears they have changed their transfer policy.
Welbeck, now 35 years old, has been in fine scoring form in recent years. He recorded his best season in front of goal in 2025/26 as he scored 13 times in 37 Premier League matches. Taking to social media, the Man Utd legend wrote: "Welbs…. Ignore + come back home! Champions League football next season in Manchester".