By Dorcas Francis Koji
Chelsea have strengthened their attacking options with the signing of experienced striker Danny Welbeck from Premier League rivals Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Blues confirmed the transfer on Saturday, announcing that the former England international has signed a contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2028. The 35-year-old is expected to join Xabi Alonso’s squad immediately during the club’s ongoing pre-season tour.
Speaking after completing the move, Welbeck described joining Chelsea as a proud moment in his career.
“Being linked with a club like Chelsea is a huge honour. It’s a team with a rich history of winning trophies and consistently competing at the highest level,” he said.
He added that conversations with manager Xabi Alonso and several members of the squad convinced him that he was joining the club at an exciting stage of its development.
“I still have the hunger and determination to compete, and I’m ready to give everything to help this club achieve success and make the supporters proud,” Welbeck said.
Chelsea’s newest recruit arrives with a wealth of experience, having made 400 Premier League appearances during a career spanning nearly two decades. He has also competed in the UEFA Champions League and represented England at two FIFA World Cups.
Welbeck began his professional career at Manchester United, where he rose through the club’s academy under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson. During his time at Old Trafford, he won the Premier League, two League Cups, two Community Shields, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
He moved to Arsenal in 2014, scoring 32 goals in 126 appearances while helping the Gunners win the FA Cup and Community Shield before later spells with Watford and Brighton & Hove Albion.
At Brighton, the striker became one of the club’s most experienced players, making more than 200 appearances and scoring 26 Premier League goals across the last two seasons.
On the international stage, Welbeck earned 42 caps for England, scoring 16 goals and featuring at UEFA Euro 2012 as well as two FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Chelsea welcomed the experienced forward with a brief message on the club’s official website: “Welcome to Chelsea, Danny!”
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