Chelsea are reportedly in shock talks to sign veteran forward Danny Welbeck from Brighton and Hove Albion.
Welbeck, 35, scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season in his best-ever return in the English top-flight and the English forward is aging like a fine wine as many pushed for him to be called up to England’s World Cup squad. Welbeck’s form led Brighton to an eighth-place finish last season as they qualified for the UEFA Conference League.
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But according to multiple reports, from the Daily Mail and The Athletic, Chelsea are in talks to sign Welbeck.
How would Welbeck fit in at Chelsea under Xabi Alonso?
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has been keen to add experience and leadership wherever he has been manager so far (see: Xhaka, Granit, at Bayer Leverkusen), and Welbeck would provide that in abundance with this youthful Chelsea side. It’s all about setting the standards and Welbeck is known to be a great team player and leader.
Joao Pedro is Chelsea’s undisputed No. 9 and starter, but Welbeck would be a fine back-up option.
Welbeck’s arrival would cast doubt on the futures of both Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson at Chelsea. Delap struggled in his first season at Chelsea, while Jackson spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich and it seems like he has no future at Stamford Bridge.
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Given that Chelsea will provide plenty of chances for Welbeck to finish, and he would be happy enough with coming off the bench and playing 20-30 minutes per game as a closer, this seems like a deal which works for everyone.
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