Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion forward Danny Welbeck, according to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs.
The interest comes as manager Michael Carrick looks to add experienced striking reinforcements to his squad ahead of a Champions League campaign next season.
United invested in Benjamin Sesko last summer, purchasing the forward from RB Leipzig to strengthen their centre-forward options for the long term.
The 23-year-old took time to settle into the Premier League before finding his stride in the second half of last season, scoring 12 goals and registering one assist in 19 starts across all competitions.
Sesko also played a key role in helping United finish third in the league and secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign.
Joshua Zirkzee remains the backup striker option currently available to Carrick, but the Dutchman has struggled to establish himself in the Premier League since arriving from Bologna.
Zirkzee also found it difficult to earn regular minutes under Carrick last season and has since been linked with a departure this summer.
Bryan Mbeumo was used as an auxiliary striker to support Sesko despite being a natural right-winger, while Matheus Cunha also offers cover in that position if required.
Speaking on the United Stand YouTube channel, Jacobs stated that United are considering signing a new experienced striker and have identified Welbeck as a serious option after being impressed by his performances last term.
Jacobs also noted that United hold interest in Igor Thiago and Ivan Toney as they assess their attacking options this summer.
Welbeck produced a strong individual season for Brighton, scoring 14 goals and adding two assists across 40 appearances in all competitions, helping the club qualify for the Conference League.
The 35-year-old’s contract at the AMEX Stadium is due to expire at the end of next season, meaning Brighton could demand a fee for his services this summer rather than risk losing him for nothing.
With Champions League football on the horizon, Carrick will need genuine depth across his squad to compete in domestic and European competitions simultaneously.
Welbeck’s Premier League pedigree and recent form make him an attractive short-term option, and United will hope that experience proves crucial in a congested fixture schedule.
Whether the Old Trafford club ultimately make a concrete move to bring the Brighton forward in remains to be seen as the transfer window develops.