By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

6th Oct, 2023 | 8:00pm

Sources: Brighton plan to open Welbeck talks soon

Brighton are plotting to open contract talks with striker Danny Welbeck before the new year, sources have told Football Insider.

It is believed the 32-year-old could well be set for another extension if he stays fit and firing before now and the end of the festive schedule.

Welbeck last signed an extension in August 2022, keeping him at Brighton until June 2024.

The ex-Arsenal and Man United hitman is starting to see his minutes shared with young duo Evan Ferguson and Joao Pedro, but nonetheless remains central to Roberto De Zerbi’s plans.

The Italian manager calls on Welbeck in the bigger games, including Thursday’s (5 October) 2-2 draw away at Marseille.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that the former England international remains a “key player” for Brighton going forward despite his contract situation and advancing years.

Welbeck has made nine appearances across all competitions this season, scoring once – with seven of those outings coming from the start.

The 32-year-old has now made 97 appearances for Brighton since joining in 2021, notching 20 goals and 10 assists.

He has racked up 310 total games in the Premier League across spells at the Seagulls, Man United, Sunderland, Arsenal and Watford – scoring 63 top-flight goals.

Welbeck also earned 42 England caps in his heyday and bagged 16 goals for his country.

Brighton sit sixth in the Premier League with 15 points despite their disappointing 6-1 defeat by Aston Villa last week (30 September).

The Seagulls are next in action against Liverpool on Sunday (8 October).

In other news, Chelsea now set sights on another Brighton star.