Chelsea target veteran Welbeck and Henderson under new manager

Chelsea are pursuing a significant shift in their transfer strategy, with negotiations underway to sign veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton & Hove Albion and the club leading the race to acquire midfielder Jordan Henderson on a free transfer from Brentford. The moves, driven by new manager Xabi Alonso, signal a clear departure from the club's recent focus on signing young talent as they seek to add proven experience and leadership to their squad.

The club is in talks with Brighton for Welbeck, 35, who is entering the final year of his contract. The striker is coming off a productive season, scoring 13 Premier League goals and winning Brighton's Players' Player of the Year award. Concurrently, Chelsea are advancing in their pursuit of Henderson, 36, who has one year remaining on his Brentford deal but could be available without a transfer fee. The former Liverpool captain, who featured for England at the 2026 World Cup before suffering a broken wrist, is said to be open to the move.

Alonso, who officially took charge on July 1, has publicly emphasized the need for balance within his team but declined to comment directly on the specific transfer links. Following a 6-4...