Ben Jacobs confirms Chelsea are close to Danny Welbeck deal – Read Chelsea F.C.

Chelsea are close to reaching an agreement with Brighton for Danny Welbeck following a breakthrough in talks.

Ben Jacobs reports that all parties now expect the transfer to be completed, while the striker has already agreed personal terms.

The move could be finalised this week, although neither club has confirmed that a full agreement is in place. Welbeck has continued training with Brighton while negotiations have progressed.

Danny Welbeck to Chelsea move now expected

Chelsea opened talks with Brighton after Xabi Alonso identified Welbeck’s experience and leadership as qualities he wanted to add to his squad.

Sky Sports reported that Brighton would not stand in Welbeck’s way, provided they received a suitable fee. The forward has one year remaining on his contract at the Amex Stadium.

Jacobs previously reported that Chelsea had reached broad terms with Welbeck and were confident of agreeing a deal with Brighton. The latest breakthrough suggests the remaining club-to-club discussions are now close to being resolved.

Welbeck scored a career-best 13 Premier League goals last season. The 35-year-old would provide an experienced alternative to Chelsea’s younger attacking options and could also help Alonso manage the development of the club’s forwards.

ReadChelsea reported within the previous 24–48 hours that Chelsea are prepared to listen to offers for Liam Delap and Emmanuel Emegha. Welbeck’s expected arrival could therefore lead to at least one departure from the forward department.

The transfer is not yet official, and a medical has not been reported. However, personal terms are settled and confidence is now high that Welbeck will complete his move to Stamford Bridge.