Chelsea have confirmed the signing of striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton on a two-year deal for undisclosed terms, ending the forward’s six-year spell at the south coast club.
Welbeck, 35, scored a career-high 13 Premier League goals last season and had 12 months remaining on his Brighton contract. Brighton confirmed his departure on X, thanking him for “everything” during “a successful and memorable six-year spell.”
“I’m really honoured to come to a club of this stature at what feels like a really exciting time,” Welbeck said. “I’ve had fantastic conversations with the manager and already feel that connection. I’ve got that fire in my belly.”
The former England international is expected to join his new teammates on Chelsea’s pre-season tour, which takes in Hong Kong, Malaysia and Indonesia. Manager Marcos Alonso’s squad are currently in Sydney after a 2-1 friendly defeat to Tottenham.
Welbeck’s arrival is expected to trigger departures from Chelsea’s crowded striker pool, which already includes Liam Delap, Emmanuel Emegha, Nicolas Jackson, Marc Guiu and Joao Pedro. At least two of those five are expected to be sold or loaned out, with Joao Pedro reported by Fabrizio Romano to be close to signing a new long-term contract.
Welbeck came through Manchester United’s academy, scoring 29 goals in 142 appearances before spending five years at Arsenal, where he scored 32 times. He later had a season at Watford before joining Brighton, where he netted 51 goals across six seasons.
