Welbeck Chelsea Move Confirmed as Brighton Bid Emotional Farewell

The Danny Welbeck Chelsea transfer has been confirmed, bringing an emotional end to almost six years at the Amex. The former England forward the Seagulls’ leading scorer last season has joined Chelsea on a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee, having left Brighton’s pre-season camp in Vienna to complete the switch to Stamford Bridge.

Brighton picked Welbeck up as a free agent early in the 2020-21 season, a move that re-ignited a career which had stalled after his years with Manchester United and England. Head coach Fabian Hürzeler paid warm tribute in the club’s statement while acknowledging the decision has split the fanbase. “It’s always sad to see a player and a person of Danny’s stature leave, and we are all sorry to see him go,” Hürzeler said. “His professionalism, attitude and commitment set the standard here every day.”

Welbeck Chelsea move: the striker’s message to the fans

In an at-times emotional farewell, Welbeck said he was leaving with “nothing but love” for the Albion. “I just know the love from everybody within the football club, the fans, is something that I will hold with me forever,” he told The Argus. He even revealed that a Valentine’s party he threw for the squad helped spark last season’s upturn, insisting supporters should “not be too sad” about his exit.

Hürzeler is backing his younger forwards to step up in Welbeck’s absence, and there is now no hiding from what his departure leaves Brighton to replace before the window shuts.