Chelsea have completed the signing of experienced striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton & Hove Albion, with the England international signing a two-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
The 35-year-old arrives after enjoying the most prolific Premier League season of his career, scoring 13 league goals in 37 appearances for Brighton. Only three English players found the net more often in the top flight last season.
Neither Chelsea nor Brighton have disclosed the transfer fee.
Welbeck becomes Chelsea’s fourth first team signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace and Marco Palestra from Atalanta.
Speaking after completing the move, Welbeck said: “When you hear of the interest from Chelsea, it’s something that fills you with such immense pride.
“I know a few of the boys already and I’ve had fantastic conversations with the manager. I’ve got that fire in my belly and I’m ready to give everything for this club and make the supporters proud.”
The signing represents a shift in Chelsea’s recent transfer strategy, with the club opting to add proven Premier League experience after largely focusing on younger talent since the ownership change in 2022.
Welbeck’s arrival also increases competition in attack. Joao Pedro is currently viewed as Chelsea’s first-choice striker, while Liam Delap, Emmanuel Emegha, Marc Guiu and Nicolas Jackson remain part of the squad.
The veteran forward began his career at Manchester United before joining Arsenal in a £16 million move in 2014. After five seasons in north London, he spent a year at Watford before signing for Brighton in 2020.
Welbeck has also earned 42 England caps, scoring 16 international goals, although he was not included in Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Chelsea will hope the experienced striker can bring leadership, goals and valuable Premier League know-how as they prepare for the new campaign under Xabi Alonso.