Chelsea sign 35-year-old striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton on two-year deal

Chelsea have signed experienced striker Danny Welbeck from fellow Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion on a two-year contract, with the 35-year-old set to join Xabi Alonso’s squad for the club’s pre-season tour.

The London club confirmed the move on Saturday, although no financial details were disclosed.

Welbeck scored 14 goals in 40 appearances in all competitions for Brighton last season and arrives at Stamford Bridge with 400 Premier League appearances to his name. His experience will add further depth to Chelsea’s attack as they prepare for the new campaign.

“I’m really honoured to come to a club of this stature at what feels like a really exciting time. I know a few of the boys already and I’ve had fantastic conversations with the manager and already feel that connection,” Welbeck said in a statement.

“I’ve got that fire in my belly and I’m ready to give it everything for this club to make everyone at Chelsea, and the supporters, proud.”

Welbeck began his career with Manchester United, having come through the club’s academy before making his first-team debut in 2008. During his time at Old Trafford, he won the Premier League title under manager Alex Ferguson and lifted two League Cups.

He moved to Arsenal in 2014 and scored 32 goals in 126 appearances in all competitions during a five-year spell with the club. The forward then spent a season at Watford before joining Brighton in 2020.

At Brighton, Welbeck developed into an important member of the squad and established himself as a key figure for the south-coast club. His 14 goals last term came across 40 appearances in all competitions.

Welbeck also represented England for eight years, scoring 16 international goals.

Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last season and will begin their new campaign away to Fulham on 24 August. The club’s decision to bring in Welbeck gives Alonso an experienced forward ahead of the start of the season, while the striker’s arrival reunites him with a side that already includes players he knows.

The transfer also marks the latest stage of a career that has included spells with Manchester United, Arsenal, Watford and Brighton, as well as a substantial international record with England. He will now look to contribute to Chelsea’s campaign after completing his move from Brighton & Hove Albion.