Why Danny Welbeck chose Chelsea instead of a reunion with Manchester United

35-year-old English striker Danny Welbeck has officially become a Chelsea player, signing a two-year contract with the London club until June 2028. The Blues paid Brighton & Hove Albion a nominal fee for the transfer of the player.

There are several reasons why the long-awaited return to Old Trafford did not happen:

• Contract duration: Manchester United considered bringing the veteran in for just one season. Chelsea, however, offered a full two-year contract. Given that the player's agreement with Brighton included an automatic extension option until 2027, the offer from the Manchester club did not appear attractive.
• Mismatch of conditions: Club officials at Manchester United were seeking an option to provide cover for Benjamin Šeško, but the financial and timeframes of the offer did not suit the striker's side.
• Productivity in later years: The last two seasons have been the most productive of the forward's career — 10 goals in the 2024/25 season and 13 goals in the 2025/26 season. Chelsea recognised the striker's form and offered the necessary level of financial and contract security.

In Xabi Alonso's team, Danny Welbeck will take on the role of an experienced rotation player behind main striker João Pedro and will also add leadership qualities to the dressing room ahead of the new season.