Revealed: Erik ten Hag wanted to bring Danny Welbeck back to Man Utd in summer transfer window with Brighton striker viewed as 'excellent' replacement for Anthony Martial

Welbeck caught Ten Hag's attention in the Dutchman's very first Premier League game in charge of United. In August 2022, the striker produced an excellent display as Brighton ran out 2-1 winners at Old Trafford, setting up Pascal Gross' goal and troubling United's defence throughout with his running. Ten Hag hadn't forgotten about that display as he pushed for United to bring Welbeck back to the club in the summer.

According to The Athletic, the Red Devils held discussions about signing Welbeck, who Ten Hag thought would be an 'excellent' addition as they sought to replace Anthony Martial. Welbeck's contract at Brighton was running down and he would bring high-level experience and a professional attitude to the dressing room. But the club never made an offer for the striker due to the uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag's future and the backroom restructure that took place in the summer, which delayed United's recruitment plans.

United were evidently keen to get younger players in the summer, so 33-year-old Welbeck wouldn't have met that criteria. But with six goals in the league already this season, including one against United, it's easy to wonder whether the club wishes they had pursued a move for their academy graduate.

The club are hopeful of appointing Sporting CP head coach Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag's replacement following the Dutchman's sacking this week. Ruud van Nistelrooy will lead the team when they face Leicester in the League Cup on Wednesday.