Chelsea FC have agreed a two-year deal with Danny Welbeck and are finalising the arrival of Jordan Henderson, as new manager Xabi Alonso moves to add Premier League experience to a young squad. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 10th in Premier League, 52 pts, 14W-10D-14L from 38 games, recent form LWDLL.
What’s the latest on Welbeck and Henderson?
Welbeck, 35, has permission from Brighton to complete a medical at Stamford Bridge after Chelsea FC agreed an undisclosed fee for the striker. Henderson, 36, has cancelled his Brentford contract to enable a switch to west London. Both players would become the oldest signings under Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s ownership.
Why are Chelsea FC targeting experience?
The Blues’ focus on youth over the past two seasons has been cited as a reason for their inconsistency. Last campaign, they finished 10th, 33 points behind leaders Arsenal, with 58 goals scored and 52 conceded (+6 goal difference). Co-owner Behdad Eghbali admitted their recruitment model needed a “tweak” after a trophyless season.
Who else could join or leave?
Chelsea FC have also signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace and are in talks to reunite Granit Xhaka with Alonso. Morgan Rogers arrived for a club-record £117m, while Marco Palestra joined from Atalanta. Strikers Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu may depart on loan or permanently.
