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Chelsea transfer news## The very latest on Chelsea's respective pursuits of Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson with the Blues' change in recruitment strategy on show for everyone to see
10:16, 29 Jul 2026Updated 07:33, 30 Jul 2026
Chelsea are closing in on the double signing of Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson from Brighton and Brentford respectively.
The Blues have agreed a deal - with the fee undisclosed - with the Seagulls for 35-year-old Welbeck to complete a move to Stamford Bridge on a contract that runs until 2028. Sources say Brighton have given the English striker permission to undergo a medical ahead of a return to the capital, after representing Arsenal from 2014 until 2019.
Xabi Alonso and the club's sporting directors are targeting what sources describe as 'ready-made' players this summer, with a deal to sign Henderson now also likely to be completed.
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The 36-year-old and Brentford had a gentlemen's agreement in place for the midfielder to depart the Gtech Community Stadium after just one season at the club - and his Bees exit was announced on Wednesday. The England international is set to sign for Chelsea on a free transfer, sources say, with Alonso keen on adding an experienced midfielder to his squad options at Stamford Bridge.
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Alonso initially requested for his new employers to go out and sign Granit Xhaka from Sunderland but the Black Cats were adamant throughout what turned out to be a short process that the 33-year-old is not for sale at any price this summer. Xhaka instead reaffirmed his commitment to staying at the Stadium of Light - following an unsuccessful £8million offer from Chelsea - despite showing initial encouragement to the Blues following their interest.
Henderson is set to become Alonso's new leader behind the scenes with the former Liverpool captain known for being a positive voice and presence in the dressing room. With 463 Premier League appearances to Henderson's name, only James Milner - the all-time record holder with 658 games - has more and is still playing in England's premier division.
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