Rio Ferdinand has called on his former Manchester United teammate Danny Welbeck to snub Chelsea and rejoin the club instead. The United legend made his plea via social media on Monday, urging Welbeck to come back and play Champions League football next season.
Welbeck, currently at Brighton, has been linked with a move to Chelsea as the club seeks to bolster its attacking options under manager Xabi Alonso. The striker, 35, has reportedly held advanced negotiations with Stamford Bridge about a switch.
The English forward enjoyed a prolific season at Brighton, netting 13 Premier League goals. He has one year remaining on his Brighton contract.
Ferdinand took to X to make his case publicly, writing: "Welbs…. Ignore plus come back home!
Champions League football next season in Manchester." He was referencing United's return to European football's premier competition after securing a top-four finish.
Welbeck spent several years at Old Trafford earlier in his career, making 142 appearances and scoring 29 goals for the club. His time at Brighton has revived his career, establishing him as a reliable goal scorer in the Premier League despite his age.
