Chelsea have opened surprise talks to sign Brighton striker Danny Welbeck.
The 35-year-old is reportedly keen on the move to Stamford Bridge, with optimism from both parties that a deal can be done.
Xabi Alonso is said to be looking for some experience after the club’s recent efforts to recruit younger players has left them short-staffed in that area.
Welbeck scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season, a career best for the Seagulls.
It takes his total tally to 51 goals for the club since joining them, and 90 goals in the Premier League across 400 total appearances.
He signed a 12-month contract extension back in March, with his deal expiring at the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
Several Chelsea forwards are believed to be on a potential departure list this summer, including Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson, and Marc Guiu.
The former struggled for minutes last season, while Jackson has returned from his loan at Bayern Munich.
Chelsea have also brought in Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a fee that commanded £117million.