Ex-Man Utd boss wanted to re-sign Welbeck as Chelsea open transfer talks

Manchester United blocked Erik ten Hag's attempt to sign Danny Welbeck in 2024 - and now the veteran striker could end up at rivals Chelsea. The Blues have opened talks with Brighton to sign Welbeck, who's still banging in the goals at Premier League level aged 35.

The former United star is understood to be keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. But Welbeck could've returned to Old Trafford a couple of years ago, with Ten Hag pushing the Red Devils to re-sign him as a replacement for Anthony Martial.

Ten Hag had seen Welbeck's ability first hand, having tormented United in the Dutchman's very first game in charge two years prior. His goalscorer record, impeccable fitness and leadership qualities appealed to him.

But Ten Hag didn't get his wish. According to The Athletic, United discussed signing Welbeck after Ten Hag's recommendation, but they ultimately didn't make an offer during what was a summer filled with changes above Ten Hag, with his own future uncertain at one stage.

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Welbeck addressed the report during an interview with The Times a few weeks later. "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."

The Red Devils' focus turned to signing younger players, with Benjamin Sesko arriving last summer at the age of 22. United have been linked with signing an experienced striker this summer but nothing has materialised, with Michael Carrick's three signings coming in goal and midfield.

As for Welbeck, he's set to join Xabi Alonso's Chelsea. The ex-England international, who was tipped for a World Cup call-up this summer, scored a career-best 13 league goals last season.

Should Manchester United hijack Chelsea's move for Danny Welbeck? Have your say in the comments section.

United legend Gary Neville reckons that Welbeck should never have been allowed to leave Old Trafford, having been sold by Louis van Gaal to Arsenal for £16million in 2014. "Danny Welbeck, to be fair, should never have been let go at United," Neville affirmed on the Stick to Football podcast.

"If you've got a squad of 24, 23, and you want to keep five or six strikers, he's got to be one of those. You've got to keep him."