EPL: Welbeck set for Chelsea move after medical permission

Chelsea is reportedly close to securing the signing of experienced striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton & Hove Albion. The veteran forward has reportedly been granted permission to undergo a medical examination at Stamford Bridge, signaling a significant step towards his transfer to the London club.

According to reports, the 35-year-old Welbeck is expected to commit to a two-year contract with Chelsea. His arrival is seen as a key component of new head coach Xabi Alonso's strategy to inject more experience into a Chelsea squad that has featured the Premier League's youngest team over the past two seasons. The club's inconsistent performances and a disappointing 10th-place finish last season have been partly attributed to a lack of seasoned players.

Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali acknowledged earlier this year that the club's recruitment strategy required adjustments. In response, the club has shifted its focus towards acquiring more proven talent. Welbeck, who previously played for Manchester United, Arsenal, and Watford, joined Brighton on a free transfer in 2021. He has scored 90 goals in 400 Premier League appearances and holds the record as Brighton's all-time leading Premier League goalscorer.

Welbeck's potential addition would provide Chelsea with increased senior striking options. The club is looking to build its attack around players like João Pedro and Welbeck, while Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap, and Marc Guiu are among those who could potentially leave. The club is also actively pursuing other transfer targets, including an offer for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka and ongoing talks for Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson. Additionally, center-back Maxence Lacroix is set to join from Crystal Palace, and young full-back Marco Palestra has already arrived from Atalanta.

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