Chelsea have completed the signing of former England international Danny Welbeck from Premier League rivals Brighton & Hove Albion.

The club announced on Saturday on its website that the 35-year-old striker had signed a contract running until 2028 and will join Xabi Alonso’s squad during the Blues’ pre-season tour.

Welbeck said after completing the move, “When you hear of the interest from Chelsea, it’s something that fills you with such immense pride.

“Knowing the history of Chelsea, it’s a club that wants to win trophies and is pushing to do that every single season.

“I’m really honoured to come to a club of this stature at what feels like a really exciting time. I know a few of the boys already and I’ve had fantastic conversations with the manager and already feel that connection.

“I’ve got that fire in my belly and I’m ready to give it everything for this club to make everyone at Chelsea, and the supporters, proud.”

Welbeck arrives at Stamford Bridge with extensive Premier League experience, having made 400 appearances in England’s top flight.

He has also featured in the UEFA Champions League and represented England at two FIFA World Cups.

The striker began his professional career at Manchester United, where he emerged under Sir Alex Ferguson and won the Premier League, two League Cups, two Community Shields and the FIFA Club World Cup.

He joined Arsenal in 2014, scoring 32 goals in 126 appearances over five seasons while winning the FA Cup and Community Shield before moving to Watford and later Brighton.

At Brighton, Welbeck made more than 200 appearances and remained a consistent scorer, netting 26 Premier League goals across the past two seasons.

Internationally, Welbeck earned 42 caps for England, scoring 16 goals during an eight-year senior career that included appearances at UEFA Euro 2012 and two FIFA World Cups.

Chelsea welcomed the forward, saying, “Welcome to Chelsea, Danny!”