Danny Welbeck (Getty Images)
According to Daily Mail, Crystal Palace are interested in signing Watford star Danny Welbeck ahead of the new campaign.
However, the Eagles would have to face competition to secure the services of the former Manchester United and Arsenal man as Southampton are also keen to take him on board, as per the report. And Welbeck, who has two years left on his contract at Vicarage Road, could be available for a low fee after the Hornets got relegated to the second tier.
Born in England, Welbeck began his journey with Fletcher Moss before rising through the ranks of United’s academy. He spent his early United career on loan spells before returning in the summer of 2011. He then established himself as a regular member of the squad.
He helped the club lift two league titles and two League Cup titles before making the move to Arsenal in 2014. He then helped the Gunners win two FA Cup titles and made 126 appearances for the Emirates outfit before moving to Watford on a free transfer last summer.
Welbeck struggled with injuries in the 2019/20 campaign and managed to score just 3 goals in 20 games across all competitions.
Roy Hodgson’s men failed miserably towards the end of the last campaign and fell to a lowly 14th position in the league standings. One of the major reasons for their downfall was the lack of consistency in front of goal. They managed to score just 39 goals in the league, which is poor.
Jordan Ayew scored just 9 league goals and ended up as their top scorer. And Wilfried Zaha managed to score just 4 times. Cenk Tosun missed the majority of the campaign due to injury and Christian Benteke has been completely out of form. Thus, they should consider bringing in a centre-forward this summer.
In that regard, Welbeck would be a viable option for the club. The English international has made over 330 career appearances and has also scored 16 goals in 42 games at the international level. He may not be at his best right now but given the lack of quality in Palace’s attack, Hodgson should take a gamble on the two-time Premier League winner.
His inclusion would add depth to the Eagles attack, whilst also bringing healthy competition to the squad. Welbeck could be a useful player given he stays away from injuries. He still has a few more years left to play and should manage to give his best.
With limited options upfront, it is clear that Palace are in dire need of strikers. And Welbeck, who has immense experience at the top level, could provide them with some quality and depth. Thus, signing the 29-year-old Englishman could pay off well for the Eagles for a few years.
