Manchester United’s transfer window this summer was dominated by big-money signings, yet behind the scenes, the club quietly explored a potential low-profile coup that would have blended experience with familiarity.
The Premier League season started with plenty of debate over United’s attacking depth, especially after Rasmus Hojlund’s move to Napoli and Benjamin Sesko’s arrival.
Fans and pundits alike questioned whether the Red Devils had enough proven Premier League firepower, particularly with Ruben Amorim keen on a versatile forward line.
While marquee signings grabbed headlines, United executives were quietly running scenarios for a secondary striker who could offer depth and mentorship to the squad.
The idea was to balance youth with familiarity, especially in high-pressure domestic and European matches.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United seriously explored the possibility of bringing Danny Welbeck back to Old Trafford.
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The striker, a product of United’s academy, had left the club in 2014 but remained a figure of affection among fans for his work ethic and history at the club.
Erik ten Hag had reportedly wanted to sign Welbeck last year, but structural changes at the club, including a new executive setup, made the move unfeasible.
This summer, however, United revisited the prospect, intrigued by Welbeck’s Premier League form with Brighton, where he finished last season as joint-top scorer alongside Joao Pedro and Kaoru Mitoma with ten goals.
The plan was to offer Danny Welbeck a contract potentially running until 2027, provided a transfer fee with Brighton could be agreed.
United viewed him as a low-cost, low-risk addition who could complement Sesko and Hojlund—or the player replacing him—and provide experience, technical quality, and a connection to Old Trafford’s heritage.
However, concerns over his age—he turns 35 in November—led the club to consider a “one plus one” contract rather than a straight two-year deal.
Ultimately, while discussions progressed internally, no formal offer was made before the transfer window closed.
The episode highlights United’s dual approach this summer: investing heavily in new talent while also exploring avenues to add experienced, trusted players who understand the club culture.
Even in the shadows of headline-grabbing transfers, the Red Devils were considering every option to maintain squad balance.
