Arsenal are weighing up a bold £45 million summer move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The 23-year-old England international has emerged as a surprise target for the Gunners, who are seeking to add more depth and dynamism to their forward line.
Madueke’s future at Chelsea has become increasingly uncertain amid reports of a significant squad overhaul under new head coach Enzo Maresca. Despite playing a pivotal role last season with 41 appearances in all competitions and helping guide Chelsea to Club World Cup success, the winger now faces increased competition for a starting berth due to a wave of new signings at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have already bolstered their ranks with several young players, including striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, Mamadou Sarr from Strasbourg, and Dario Essugo from Sporting Lisbon. These additions, part of the club’s youth-focused recruitment drive, could push Madueke further down the pecking order.
Arsenal, on the other hand, are not sitting idle. After coming close to Premier League glory in recent seasons, Arteta is intent on building a squad capable of mounting a sustained title challenge. Reinforcements in wide areas have been identified as a priority, with the club reportedly exploring options beyond just central striking targets.
The Gunners have been linked with a number of forwards this summer, including Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko, as they search for long-term attacking solutions. However, with their pursuit of Spain international Nico Williams likely to end in disappointment following reports of his agreement with Barcelona, attention has shifted quickly to other targets.
Madueke fits the profile Arsenal are seeking: young, Premier League-proven, and capable of offering pace, directness, and flair on the flanks. His ability to play on either wing could provide Arteta with tactical flexibility and added depth, especially with the increasing demands of domestic and European campaigns.
The potential transfer would also represent a rare direct move between two major London rivals, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the story. While it remains to be seen how Chelsea would respond to a formal bid, the club’s openness to selling players deemed surplus to requirements could provide Arsenal with a rare opportunity.
Should the Gunners follow through on their interest, it would be a statement of intent from Arteta and the club hierarchy. Signing Madueke could prove to be a calculated gamble one that might yield significant rewards if the winger is given the platform to shine in North London.
