Danny Welbeck has been given permission to undergo a medical in the next 24 hours ahead of his imminent move to Chelsea. The Brighton striker is on the verge of sealing a switch to Stamford Bridge with a deal close to being finalised. Chelsea have turned to Welbeck, 35, as they look to add experience to manager Xabi Alonso's squad.

The club’s last transfer of a player over 26 was four years ago when they signed Pierre‑Emerick Aubameyang. It has been two years since Chelsea selected a player over 30 in any game. Welbeck’s reliable goalscoring record – 13 goals last season and 10 previous – showcases his Premier League experience.

This potential arrival aligns with Chelsea’s focus on physically imposing players. They already signed Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117m, a record fee for a British player, and are close to bringing in Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.

Welbeck’s move would also raise questions about the futures of strikers Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu, while adding depth to a squad that has seen several Brighton players and staff migrate to Stamford Bridge in recent years.