When Brighton signed Danny Welbeck on a free transfer in October 2020, it looked like a panic signing.
But four years later, the former England striker, who will turn 34 on November 26, has made the best start to the season of his career, with six goals in the first nine games.
He has already scored more goals than the five he managed in 29 league games last season, while one more will see him become the club’s top scorer in the Premier League alongside Pascal Gross.
Brighton have also been boosted by the recent return of Joao Pedro.
The Brazilian has wasted no time getting up to speed for the Seagulls, scoring two goals and providing two assists in his first two appearances since recovering from an ankle injury.
However, Brighton is not just relying on Welbeck and Pedro. The club has had 11 goalscorers this season, more than any other Premier League team.
The club’s latest hidden gem is midfielder Carlos Baleba, who joined Brighton for £26 million in the summer of 2023, when he was 19 years old.
The signing, just a fortnight after Caicedo’s record transfer to British club Chelsea for £115m, certainly raised eyebrows, having played just 21 times in Ligue 1 for Lille.
He has become a key man this season, despite Saturday’s harsh red card, ranking fourth in possession won (7.2) and fifth in interceptions (2.1) per 90, among players who They have played more than 10 Premier League games this season.
