Man United 'discussed' re-signing Danny Welbeck after recommendation from boss

A move to Stamford Bridge follows a failed attempt by Erik ten Hag in 2024 to re-sign Welbeck for Manchester United. Ten Hag identified the club's former academy product as an ideal candidate to replace Anthony Martial, impressed by his conditioning, clinical edge, and leadership.

However, Old Trafford chiefs overruled the manager's request to add veteran leadership to his attack. According to The Athletic, United did consider signing Welbeck following Ten Hag's recommendation, but ultimately failed to table an offer during a summer of significant upheaval above the manager, with his own position under threat at one point.

Welbeck responded to the reports in an interview with The Times shortly afterwards. "It's speculation and there's always that link for me because I've been at the club," he explained.

"As I said, I'm just focusing on what I can control myself and all the other stuff is pretty irrelevant." United shifted their attention towards recruiting younger talent, with Benjamin Sesko joining last summer aged 22.

While United have been reportedly interested in bringing in an experienced striker this summer, no deals have come to fruition, with Michael Carrick's three acquisitions focused on goalkeeping and midfield positions.

Meanwhile, Welbeck is poised to link up with Xabi Alonso's Chelsea. The former England international, who was in contention for a World Cup squad place this summer, netted a personal best of 13 league goals last season.

United icon Gary Neville believes that Welbeck should never have been permitted to depart Old Trafford, having been sold by Louis van Gaal to Arsenal for £16million in 2014.