Man United 'attempted' to sign former striker this summer despite £74m Benjamin Sesko arrival

Manchester United reportedly considered signing Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck at the beginning of the summer transfer window.

The 34-year-old has continued to feature prominently for the Seagulls this season, starting two of his side's three Premier League matches so far in 2025-26.

Welbeck finished as joint-top goalscorer for Brighton last campaign, managing a commendable tally 10 top-flight goals across 30 appearances.

Fabian Hurzeler's side rounded up their action prior to the international break with a 2-1 success over struggling Manchester City.

Welbeck played for 61 minutes on Sunday afternoon when goals from James Milner and Brajan Gruda were enough for victory.

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Man United 'considered' Welbeck swoop

According to The Athletic, Manchester United could have turned to an old friend to resolve their attacking issues this summer.

The report claims that the Red Devils were considering a swoop for the services of former player and academy graduate Welbeck.

It is understood that Man Utd were contemplating the signing of the 34-year-old after missing out on Chelsea-bound Liam Delap.

However, an offer for the veteran forward was not forthcoming from United, largely down to the age profile of the ex-England international.

It is understood that chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe was unwilling to offer a two-year contract to Welbeck, who turns 35 in November.

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Man United plan for the future

Although Welbeck may have provided some attacking firepower this season, the forward would not have been a fixture of teams for years to come.

Instead, the Red Devils moved to invest in the future, with 22-year-old Benjamin Sesko arriving from RB Leipzig in a deal worth £74m.

The Slovenia international has endured a slow start to life at Old Trafford but possesses the potential to become a star of the future for Man United.