Danny Welbeck has joined Chelsea for undisclosed terms, bringing an end to a ‘successful and memorable’ six-year spell with the club.
The former Manchester United, Arsenal and England striker arrived after leaving Watford, in October 2020, quicky becoming an influential figure at the club, on and off the pitch, and making a significant contribution during one of the most successful periods in our history.
Head coach Fabian Hürzeler said: “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.
“Danny has been a pleasure to work with from the moment I arrived at the club. His professionalism, attitude and commitment set the standard here every day, and he has been a fantastic support to me, personally.
Danny Welbeck and Jan Paul van Hecke after Brighton's final game of 25-26, v Manchester United | Glyn Kirk/AFP via Getty Imagesplaceholder image
Danny Welbeck and Jan Paul van Hecke after Brighton's final game of 25-26, v Manchester United | Glyn Kirk/AFP via Getty Images
“As well as the quality he brought on the pitch, he was an important leader within the squad and a role model for our younger players. We are grateful for everything he has done for the club and wish him all the very best for the future.”
Chairman Tony Bloom added: “Danny has made an incredible contribution to Brighton & Hove Albion during his six years with the club. His performances, goals and experience played a key role in some of the most important moments in our recent history, while his character and leadership made him a hugely respected figure within the club.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Danny for his outstanding service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”
During his time with Albion between 2020 and 2026, Welbeck made 201 appearances in all competitions, scoring 51 goals and contributing 18 assists; becoming Brighton’s leading top-flight goalscorer in the process.
Tommy Watson (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)placeholder image
Tommy Watson (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
He played a key role in helping the club achieve its highest-ever Premier League finish of sixth place in 2023, securing European qualification for the first time ever; last season his goals and performances were critical in securing a Conference League place for the coming season.
He is not the only player to have an Amex exit confirmed on Saturday – Tommy Watson has moved to Leicester City on a season-long loan.
The 20-year-old joined us last summer from Sunderland and spent the second half of the 2025/26 campaign on loan with Millwall.
Sporting director Mike Cave said, “Tommy has continued to make progress during his first year. We believe that this loan will give him the opportunity to do that, with a club that will be aiming to compete at the top of League One.
“We wish Tommy the best of luck for the season ahead and look forward to seeing his development.”
Watson signed for Albion after scoring the winning goal in the Black Cats’ Championship play-off final win in 2025, which secured their place back in the Premier League.
He has made ten appearances for Albion, including his Premier League debut, and played 12 times for Millwall last season.