Chelsea are in talks to sign Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck, 35, who is keen to join new manager Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge.

The move would signal a shift in strategy, following attempts to sign 33‑year‑old midfielder Granit Xhaka from Sunderland, who remains at the club. Although the arrival of 23‑year‑old Rogers fits the club’s policy of younger players, he brings Premier League experience.

Chelsea also expect to complete a £52m move for Crystal Palace defender Lacroix, 26, adding Premier League‑ready experience. Welbeck’s arrival would leave the Blues with an abundance of attacking options, despite not being involved in European competition.

At his age, Welbeck may provide cover for Joao Pedro, while Jackson is open to leaving and Delap and Emegha had hoped to establish themselves under Alonso. The manager is getting experience and strong personalities to address shortcomings that led to the club’s 10th‑place finish last season.

If the transfer succeeds, Chelsea would bolster its attack and bring a seasoned striker who can mentor younger forwards. The club’s current squad depth at the back and midfield positions also encourages the addition of experienced players to stabilize the side for a top‑four push.