Danny Welbeck is reportedly on the verge of joining Chelsea from Brighton, with the veteran striker set to become the latest player to make the switch from the Seagulls to the Blues

Danny Welbeck appears poised to become the latest player to make the switch from Brighton to Chelsea. However, some Blues fans may feel a certain way about the striker's previous comments concerning the rivalry between the two clubs.

Chelsea are reportedly on the verge of finalising a deal with the Seagulls for the former Manchester United and Arsenal man. That's in addition to a move for fellow veteran Jordan Henderson, who is also believed to be closing in on a move to Stamford Bridge on a free.

Xabi Alonso is eager to inject additional experience into his youthful squad as he attempts to guide the west London outfit back into the Champions League. Chelsea concluded a disappointing 2025/26 campaign under Calum McFarlane after both Enzo Maresca and his replacement Liam Rosenior were axed.

Welbeck, who scored twice in three fixtures against the Blues last season, is acutely aware of the 'rivalry' between the two clubs. Chelsea have recruited 15 players or staff from Brighton since 2022 for a combined sum approaching £289.2million.

Depending on the fee ultimately agreed, that total could reach £300m once Welbeck completes his move to Stamford Bridge. Back in February 2025, Welbeck was questioned about the "friction" between the two Premier League clubs following a 3-0 victory over Chelsea.

Jamie Carragher said during a post-match interview with Sky Sports: "It almost feels like there's a rivalry between Brighton and Chelsea, I felt like I could feel it in the stands.

"I spoke to Jason Steele before the game and he mentioned it, that there's that little bit of friction. Understandably so because of what happened with Graham Potter, players going there, taking the recruitment staff. Is there something extra when Chelsea come to town?"

Welbeck then replied: "You know we feel it as a group and a dressing room, the fans, they obviously produce that atmosphere. There's been a lot of ongoing between the two clubs and a lot of stuff has happened.

"It all stems from the fans, they produce that amazing atmosphere. When it comes to the pitch, we just want to make it a really good game, a really good rivalry, fierce and we want to fight right until the end with them."

Alongside their pursuit of Welbeck, Chelsea are also close to signing Henderson after he agreed to end his stay at Brentford one year early. One Brighton supporter, @MwepuMagic on social media platform X, voiced their dismay that the 35-year-old is receptive to the transfer given the bad blood between the clubs.

They cited his previous remarks and wrote: "Danny Welbeck said THIS about Brighton's rivalry with Chelsea two years ago. He's just agreed personal terms with them inside a day. Disgraceful and if he gets booed I'll have no complaints. What did you expect Danny?"

The overwhelming response to the post suggests most fans believe Welbeck is perfectly entitled to pursue the opportunity at this point in his career. It should be noted, however, that until a deal is formally concluded, nothing is set in stone.