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Paul Merson has backed Chelsea’s pursuit of Danny Welbeck but questioned whether the experienced striker would receive enough minutes under Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea have held positive talks with Brighton over a deal for Welbeck, who has entered the final year of his contract.
Merson believes Chelsea’s young squad would benefit from adding senior professionals such as Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.
However, the former Arsenal midfielder fears a reduced role at Stamford Bridge could make it difficult for Welbeck to maintain his recent form.
🚨🚨NEW: Paul Merson on Chelsea's new signing, Danny Welbeck:
🗣"People are making too much noise about Danny Welbeck's age. Either you don't understand football, or you're a rival fan consumed by jealousy. Last season Chelsea lacked experience in the biggest moments, and… pic.twitter.com/WunXnu5hy9
— CFC F_Boy (@fullbol_tweets) July 29, 2026
Paul Merson raises Danny Welbeck Chelsea concern
“I like Welbeck,” Merson wrote in his latest Sky Sports column.
“He needs to play a lot of football when you’re his age.”
Welbeck made more than 30 appearances in each of his previous two seasons at Brighton. He also scored a career-best 13 Premier League goals during the 2025/26 campaign.
Merson doubts whether the striker can receive similar opportunities at Chelsea. João Pedro is expected to lead Alonso’s attack, while Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers provide options in the positions behind him.
Chelsea also have Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson, Emmanuel Emegha and Marc Guiu on their books. The Blues are prepared to consider offers for some of those forwards, as detailed in ReadChelsea’s report on the possible striker exits.
Merson believes irregular substitute appearances could prevent Welbeck from building rhythm. Chelsea’s absence from European competition also removes several potential starts from the schedule.
His comments are not a warning against the transfer itself. Merson described experience as “priceless” and believes Welbeck could help Chelsea’s younger players during difficult periods.
The Danny Welbeck Chelsea concern instead centres on his role. Alonso must provide enough meaningful minutes for the striker to remain sharp while still developing his younger attacking options.