Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a shock move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, according to updates from **The Athletic** and **BBC Sport** dated July 5, 2025.
The 23-year-old England international is seen as a versatile and exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad. However, news of a potential transfer to a London rival has divided Chelsea fans—some are dismayed at the prospect of selling to Arsenal, especially amid financial instability at Stamford Bridge.
Madueke joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 for £28.5 million. Since then, he has played 91 games, scoring 20 goals and contributing nine assists. Despite injuries and disciplinary concerns over his training habits last season, he still managed 11 goals and 5 assists across 45 appearances.
Chelsea are reportedly open to selling players as they navigate financial troubles, especially after UEFA imposed fines for breaches of financial regulations. With recent big-money signings like João Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens adding to their wage bill, pressure is mounting to balance the books.
Although Madueke is valued at approximately £50 million, Arsenal may be able to negotiate a lower fee—possibly closer to £40 million—thanks to improving relations between the clubs, highlighted by Kepa Arrizabalaga’s £5 million transfer to the Emirates earlier this summer.
Arteta is eager to strengthen his attacking options out wide, particularly to provide cover for Bukayo Saka and to compete with Gabriel Martinelli on the opposite wing. Madueke’s ability to play on both flanks and his strong partnership with Cole Palmer—especially during his quickfire hat-trick against Wolves—make him an appealing target.
While Arsenal have been linked with other attacking names such as Eberechi Eze, Rodrygo, and Viktor Gyokeres, Madueke is viewed as a more cost-effective and realistic acquisition, especially after the club missed out on Nico Williams.
Although no official negotiations between the two clubs have started, Madueke has reportedly agreed to personal terms, marking a significant step forward in the potential deal.
For now, the winger remains focused on Chelsea’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign, coming off the bench in their 2-1 quarter-final win over Palmeiras on July 4. Manager Enzo Maresca praised Madueke’s contribution but hinted at a possible departure: “Noni’s been important, but unhappy players are free to leave.”
Former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair cautioned against strengthening a rival by selling a promising young English player. Meanwhile, Arsenal fans are optimistic about the move, hoping Madueke could become a fan favorite. Chelsea supporters remain divided—some see the sale as necessary due to financial pressures, while others consider it a major misstep.
With Arsenal preparing a formal bid, the transfer saga is heating up and could become one of the defining stories of the summer window.