Leon Osman believes Everton could do a lot worse than consider a move for Brighton and Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck in the summer transfer window, speaking on Match Of The Day (15 May, 10.20pm).
The fact Brighton only handed the former England international a 12-month contract when they signed him from Watford last year spoke volumes.
But there can be no doubting Welbeck’s quality.
Even during Watford’s relegation from the Premier League, the one-time Manchester United youngster produced the odd moment of mind-bending brilliance. Remember that stunning overhead-kick winner against Norwich City?
A worrying fitness record, however, meant Brighton faced little competition for the signature of a forward who should be in his prime aged 30.
Barring a few weeks out with a knee injury in the winter, however, Welbeck has stayed relatively injury free at the Amex.
And, after taking his seasonal tally to six with a gorgeous finish in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with West Ham United, will Brighton face a battle to keep their striker when his one-year, £50,000-a-week deal expires in July?
“I think it would be a good signing for any team. I think a number of Premier League teams and managers will be looking and seeing his quality,” says Osman, the Everton legend.
“There could be some teams out there – mine in particular – where (Welbeck) could come in and get 15 to 20 goals a season and give that balance because there’s no doubt about his quality.”
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is the only Everton player to have scored more than six goals in the league this term.
And, with doubts surrounding the futures of Moise Kean, Cenk Tosun and Josh King, Osman has a point. The Toffees could do with an experienced, proven number nine – like a fit and in-form Danny Welbeck.
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