Chelsea close to signing Danny Welbeck as Xabi Alonso reshuffles attack; Jordan Henderson also set to follow

Chelsea are on the verge of securing a surprise move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck, with the veteran forward granted permission to undergo a medical at Stamford Bridge. The deal marks a clear shift in transfer strategy under head coach Xabi Alonso, who is determined to inject experience into one of the Premier League's youngest squads. According to insider sources, Chelsea have reached an agreement in principle with Welbeck over a two-year contract, and the medical is scheduled before the end of the week. Although no official fee has been disclosed, unconfirmed reports suggest a figure in the region of €7 million, which would represent a bargain given Welbeck is entering the final year of his Brighton deal. If everything proceeds as planned, the 33-year-old will join Chelsea's pre-season tour in Hong Kong, offering Alonso a proven Premier League goalscorer and a calming presence in the dressing room. The Welbeck pursuit could also accelerate the departure of several forwards. Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson, and newly-arrived Emmanuel Emegha are all believed to be available for transfer as Chelsea look to reshape their frontline. Chelsea are also closing in on a second experienced addition: Jordan Henderson. The 36-year-old midfielder is expected to leave Brentford on a free transfer after the club honoured a gentleman's agreement to release him despite having a year left on his contract. Henderson has already given his green light to the move and is likely to link up with Welbeck in Hong Kong in the coming days. Alonso's search for maturity did not start smoothly - a move for Granit Xhaka from Sunderland fell through, while an approach for John Stones was considered but the 32-year-old is now set to join Inter after leaving Manchester City.