Chelsea have completed the signing of veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton & Hove Albion on a two-year contract, adding Premier League experience to manager Xabi Alonso’s squad ahead of the new season.

The 35-year-old joins the Blues for an undisclosed fee after spending six seasons at Brighton, where he established himself as one of the club’s most reliable forwards. Welbeck’s contract at Stamford Bridge will run until June 2028.

Speaking after completing the move, Welbeck said he was excited to begin a new chapter with the west London club.

“I’m really honoured to come to a club of this stature at what feels like a really exciting time. I’ve got that fire in my belly, and I’m ready to give it everything for this club to make everyone at Chelsea, and the supporters, proud,” he said.

Welbeck arrives after enjoying one of the best seasons of his career. He scored 13 Premier League goals in 37 appearances for Brighton during the 2025/26 campaign, helping the Seagulls secure a top-half finish and earning praise for his leadership and consistency in attack.

A product of Manchester United’s academy, Welbeck has amassed more than 400 Premier League appearances during spells with Manchester United, Arsenal, Watford and Brighton. He has won the Premier League and League Cup with United, the FA Cup with Arsenal, and earned 42 caps for England, scoring 16 international goals.

Chelsea believe the experienced forward will provide leadership and depth to a youthful squad as the club prepares for domestic and European competitions under Alonso. His arrival also signals a shift in the club’s recent transfer strategy, with the Blues placing greater emphasis on experienced players alongside emerging talent.

Welbeck is expected to link up with his new teammates immediately as Chelsea continue preparations for the start of the 2026/27 Premier League season.