Chelsea are closing on the signings of veteran duo Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck – and John Terry’s explanation for Henderson’s World Cup call-up explains why Chelsea want him.
Brentford midfielder Henderson, 35, is available on a free transfer. Chelsea want experience in the middle of the park, and after failing to reunite Xabi Alonso with Granit Xhaka, Henderson is now a transfer target.
First Danny Welbeck and now Jordan Henderson! What is going on at Chelsea?
Chelsea want to sign Jordan Henderson graphic
Photo by Leonardo Fernandez – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
BlueCo have made a point of changing their approach in the transfer market. Experience is required, and Henderson certainly fills the void. Thomas Tuchel picked him for England’s World Cup squad for just that.
The leadership, the ability to raise the standards of his teammates, and his footballing intelligence are valuable assets that boss Alonso wants to bring to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are not alone in their pursuit.
READ MORE: Landon Emenalo is doing something behind the scenes that Xabi Alonso will love
Terry has already explained why Chelsea are signing Henderson
Ahead of the World Cup, much was discussed about Henderson’s inclusion. On his TikTok page, Terry said that Henderson has the ability to improve the form of his teammates and that’s why Tuchel included him.
France v England: Bronze Final - FIFA World Cup 2026
Photo by Leonardo Fernandez – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Now, Terry’s comments have much more meaning to those of a Chelsea persuasion. Here is what the Blues icon said at the beginning of the World Cup, ahead of England’s opening 4-2 win against Croatia.
“My honest thoughts of Jordan being involved is 100%, I get it from the managerial perspective. Is Jordan one of the best players in the Premier League this year? No, you could argue not,” Terry explained.
“Would I personally want Jordan around the place? Yes, 100%. Is Jordan Henderson a very, very good footballer? Yes, he is. Now, I’ve heard Roy Keane say, ‘What’s he doing, magic tricks?’ and stuff like that.
“No, he’s not. He’s a fantastic player. And also, if we’re under pressure a little bit, I can see him coming on for 15, 20 minutes, winning the game 1-0. People like that being experienced pros, seeing the game out.
Brentford v Chelsea - Premier League
Photo by Harry Murphy/Getty Images
“Showing a little bit of the dark arts that we don’t really see, time wasting. He’s got bundles of experience. Do I think he can make a big impact at the World Cup? 100%. Would I have him there? Yeah, I would.”
Where do Chelsea stand in pursuit of Henderson and Welbeck?
Chelsea are much further advanced in talks to sign Welbeck. The connection Chelsea have with Brighton may have smoothed that deal over, as Welbeck looks to reunite with his old striker partner Joao Pedro.
Danny Welbeck to Chelsea out of nowhere! Share your thoughts below 😱
Danny Welbeck of Brighton
Photo by Scott Llewellyn/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
But Fabrizio Romano has reported that both players have agreed personal terms with Xabi Alonso’s side this summer. Welbeck has a two-year offer on the table, and the chances are, Henderson has the same.
By the end of the week, Chelsea could well announce the arrivals of three new signings. Maxence Lacroix, Henderson and Welbeck. If so, that would really see Alonso’s footprint on this side start to take shape.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox