Report: Welbeck set to leave Arsenal on free transfer

If Danny Welbeck manages to return from injury, the Arsenal forward will likely be auditioning for future employers in the second half of the season.

The north London side reportedly isn't planning to offer him a new deal before his contract expires next summer, according to Matt Hughes of The Times.

That means the 28-year-old can sign a pre-contract with another team as soon as January.

The England international is dealing with a serious knee injury that required two surgeries. It's unclear if he will return this season, as Arsenal have not provided a timetable.

Welbeck is the latest high-profile Arsenal player who appears destined to leave on a free transfer following reports that the Gunners decided against extending Aaron Ramsey's stay. The Welsh midfielder said earlier this season that he was close to signing a new deal before Arsenal withdrew their contract offer.

Welbeck's made 126 appearances for the Gunners since joining Arsenal from Manchester United in 2014.