Ruben Amorim, a key figure in the club's decision-making process, was also open to the idea of Welbeck's return. However, the club's co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was hesitant to offer Welbeck a two-year contract.
The club also discussed a potential move for Antoine Semenyo, but ultimately decided against it due to Bournemouth's high asking price of £70 million.