Madueke Edges Closer to Arsenal Transfer in £50M Agreement

Arsenal are reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Chelsea to sign winger Noni Madueke for just over £50 million. BBC Sport noted that the England international has already agreed on personal terms with Arsenal as he looks to make a move across London.

The two clubs have reached an agreement in principle concerning the transfer fee, although some details still need to be worked out. Currently part of Chelsea’s squad at the Club World Cup, Madueke contributed to the team reaching the final by coming on as a substitute during their 2-0 victory over Brazilian side Fluminense.

Since joining Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, Madueke has made 92 appearances and scored 20 goals. Before his time at Chelsea, he was part of Tottenham’s academy and spent a significant period in the Netherlands.

Where could Madueke play for the Gunners? Analysis by Tom McCoy, BBC Sport

Predominantly, Madueke has played on the right wing for Chelsea, with 88% of his Premier League minutes spent in that position since his arrival in January 2023. His addition would alleviate some of the pressure on Bukayo Saka, who has been heavily relied upon in the past few seasons. Saka has started 108 of 114 league matches from 2021-22 to 23-24, although he missed three months in the most recent campaign due to a hamstring injury. Like Saka, Madueke tends to cut inside and shoot with his stronger left foot when playing on the right.

He also featured on the left in England’s victory over Andorra in June, where he played a key role by assisting Harry Kane’s winning goal.

Aside from providing cover for Saka on the right, Madueke could challenge both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left wing, bringing a more direct attacking threat. Last season in the Premier League, Madueke recorded more shots and dribbles per 90 minutes than both Martinelli and Trossard and was more effective in carrying the ball.

A More Direct Option for Arsenal on the Left? Per 90 mins, Premier League 2024-25

| Player | Dribbles | Carry distance | Shots |
|——————|———-|—————–|——-|
| Noni Madueke | 4.3 | 218.3m | 3.5 |
| Leandro Trossard | 2.8 | 151.6m | 2.5 |
| Gabriel Martinelli| 3.9 | 168.2m | 2.2 |