Chelsea have abandoned transfer 'policy' in U-turn after two-year deal agreed - expert
Chelsea's move to sign Danny Welbeck is part of a clear effort to get more experience into Xabi Alonso's squad.
That is according to former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, who believes that the 35-year-old will be a success at Stamford Bridge.
This comes after Welbeck's move to join the Blues from Brighton was confirmed, with the West Londoners paying a £5million fee, and the player signing a two-year deal.
Wyness believes that Chelsea have "thought long and hard" over their recent "policy" of recruiting younger players, and have now decided to largely abandon that plan.
The capital club are also on the verge of signing former Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson, as Alonso looks to build a core of Premier League experience.
Wyness outlined his surprise at the stance that Chelsea have taken this summer, but believes that Welbeck could yet prove to be a very shrewd acquisition.
Chelsea swinging experience pendulum too far
Everton’s former chief Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – believes that Welbeck still keeps himself fit enough for him to continue to be a threat in the Premier League next season.
The frontman netted 13 goals in the top flight last term, which surpassed his previous best career campaign in front of goal.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, Wyness explained exactly why he is optimistic about the veteran's chances of success at Stamford Bridge.
"I think Welbeck is a good signing. It's clear that Chelsea have really thought long and hard that they've got the youth policy wrong, focusing exclusively on youth," he said.
"They are bringing in some expertise with Welbeck, and the one that really surprises me is the link with Jordan Henderson at the moment.
"So look, there's a blend, I get it what they're trying to do. They might be going too far there; they might be starting to overdo it slightly because it's alright having that mix for the dressing room, but I don't think you need more than two or three maximum.
"They've got to get this balance right rather than swinging too far back to the older experience route. Welbeck is one that I understood; I get it, and it makes sense. He keeps himself very sharp, very fit. I think he'll do very well for Chelsea."
Leeds make contact to sign £40m Chelsea star
Football Insider revealed on Saturday that Leeds will only take their interest in Liam Delap further if Chelsea lower their £40m asking price for the striker.
The Whites have already made contact over a potential move for the 23-year-old, in a bid to strengthen their attack for this season.
Delap is increasingly likely to leave Chelsea this summer, with the likes of Everton and Nottingham Forest also keen to strike a deal for him.
Welbeck's arrival is likely to push the youngster further towards the exit door, but Chelsea may have to take a slight hit on their valuation if they are to get him off their books.