Chelsea Reportedly Keen on Veteran Signings, Including Henderson and Welbeck

FC Chelsea is reportedly determined to bolster their squad with seasoned veterans, and Jordan Henderson is said to be on their radar.

According to reports from The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano, among others, the 36-year-old midfielder, despite having a contract with FC Brentford until 2027, is likely to move on a free transfer. Last season, Henderson was not an undisputed starter for the Londoners, yet he still earned a spot in England's World Cup squad.

Coach Thomas Tuchel only gave the 90-cap international a brief appearance near the end of the third group game against Panama. He broke his arm during the celebrations after the Round of 16 victory against Mexico and consequently missed the remainder of the tournament due to injury.

Henderson played for FC Liverpool from 2011 to 2023, winning the Champions League and the Premier League under Jürgen Klopp. He then moved to Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia and subsequently to Ajax Amsterdam before returning to his English homeland in the summer of 2025 to join Brentford. A move within London could now follow.

FC Chelsea Allegedly Also Interested in Danny Welbeck

In recent years, Chelsea has focused heavily on signing young, developing players in the transfer market. However, under new coach Xabi Alonso, the squad is now reportedly set to be supplemented with some experienced figures.

Weeks ago, there were reports of alleged interest in Granit Xhaka from AFC Sunderland, but a transfer for the 33-year-old Swiss international no longer seems imminent. Henderson would be a similarly positioned alternative. More recently, Chelsea's interest in 35-year-old striker Danny Welbeck of Brighton & Hove Albion has also surfaced. Additionally, defender John Stones (32), who has been a free agent since leaving Manchester City, is also being considered.