Ex-Preston North End loan striker Danny Welbeck is a free agent

The 29-year-old forward, who has 42 England caps, joined in August 2019 following his release by Arsenal.

He started his career at Manchester United and spent a spell on loan with Preston as a youngster.

Welbeck played eight games for North End while on loan from the Old Trafford club in early 2010, scoring twice.

He had a loan spell at Sunderland before making his breakthrough into the United team under Sir Alex Ferguson.

He was sold by United’s then boss Louis van Gaal to Arsenal on deadline day in 2014 for £16m.

But after five seasons with the Gunners he left at the end of his contract and joined Watford in August last year.

He went on to make 20 appearances and score three goals in all competitions last term for the Hornets, who were relegated from the Premier League.

A statement from the club on Tuesday said: “Watford FC confirms that it has reached an agreement to allow Danny Welbeck to leave on a free transfer.

“We wish Danny every success in the future.”