The news, reported on July 5, 2025, by sources including The Athletic and BBC Sport, has sparked excitement among Arsenal fans, who see the 23-year-old as a versatile addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad, but Chelsea supporters are divided, with some questioning the club’s willingness to sell to a rival amidst financial pressures.
Madueke, who joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 for £28.5 million, has made 91 appearances, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists, including 11 goals and five assists in 45 games this season, despite a hamstring injury and being dropped by manager Enzo Maresca for two matches due to training performances.
His contract runs until 2030, but Chelsea’s recent signings of João Pedro (£50 million-plus), Liam Delap (£30 million), and Jamie Gittens (£48.5 million plus add-ons), coupled with UEFA financial penalties, have fueled speculation of a potential exit to balance the books.
Chelsea reportedly value Madueke at £50 million, though Arsenal could negotiate a deal closer to £40 million, given the clubs’ good relations, evidenced by Kepa Arrizabalaga’s £5 million move to Arsenal this summer.
Arsenal’s interest stems from Arteta’s desire for a versatile winger to provide depth behind Bukayo Saka and compete with Gabriel Martinelli on the left.
Madueke’s ability to play on either flank, his aggression in one-on-one duels, and his chemistry with Cole Palmer—highlighted by a 14-minute hat-trick against Wolves last season—make him an attractive target.
The Gunners, who have also been linked with Eberechi Eze, Rodrygo, and Viktor Gyokeres, view Madueke as a cost-effective option to bolster their attack, especially after missing out on Nico Williams.
However, no club-to-club talks have started, and Madueke remains focused on Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign, where he made a substitute appearance in their 2-1 quarter-final win over Palmeiras on July 4, 2025.
Social media reactions on X reflect mixed sentiments. Arsenal fans like @leafricangooner praise Madueke’s potential to “light up the Emirates,” while Chelsea supporters, such as @TheBlueDodger, lament, “Selling Noni to Arsenal is madness—he’s got more flair than Gittens.” Others, like @CFCPys, note the financial necessity, stating, “UEFA fines and new signings mean we might have to let him go.”
Maresca’s comments post-Palmeiras—“Noni’s been important, but unhappy players are free to leave”—suggest an openness to a deal if the price is right, though former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair warned against selling to a rival, citing Madueke’s growth and England call-ups.
The transfer’s progression hinges on Arsenal’s next steps, with Sky Sports reporting they are poised to make an offer soon. Chelsea’s crowded attacking roster and financial constraints could facilitate a deal, but fans remain wary of strengthening a competitor.
For now, Madueke’s agreement on personal terms marks a significant step, but the saga awaits formal negotiations to determine if he’ll join Arsenal’s project to end their five-year trophy drought.
