Arsenal are on the verge of finalising a deal to sign winger Noni Madueke from Chelsea for a fee of just over £50 million. The agreement between the two London clubs is now in place in principle, with only the final details of the transfer left to be resolved.
Madueke, 23, has already agreed personal terms and is expected to switch allegiances across the capital once the deal is complete. He is currently part of Chelsea’s squad competing at the Club World Cup and featured off the bench in their 2-0 semi-final victory over Fluminense, helping the Blues reach the final.
Since his arrival at Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, Madueke has made 92 appearances, scoring 20 goals. Before his time in the Netherlands, he developed in the youth system at Tottenham Hotspur.
Madueke has primarily featured on the right wing during his time in the Premier League, with the vast majority of his minutes played on that flank. His style mirrors that of Bukayo Saka, operating from the right and cutting inside to shoot with his stronger left foot. Given Saka’s heavy workload in recent seasons — having started 108 of Arsenal’s last 114 league games before missing a chunk of the previous campaign with a hamstring injury — Madueke’s arrival would offer much-needed depth and protection in that area of the pitch.
While his natural position is on the right, Madueke ended the last campaign being used more frequently on the left wing under Chelsea’s new head coach. He started four of their final five Premier League matches on that side, including the Conference League final. His adaptability was also seen during England’s June international against Andorra, where he played on the left and provided an assist for the winning goal.
This versatility would be a valuable asset for Arsenal, not only offering backup for Saka but also increasing competition on the opposite wing. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have both been regulars on the left for the Gunners, but Madueke brings a more direct and aggressive attacking style.
Statistically, Madueke outperformed both Martinelli and Trossard last season in terms of shots and dribbles attempted per 90 minutes. He also carried the ball over longer distances, showcasing his ability to drive forward and create attacking momentum.
Should the move go through as expected, Arsenal would gain a dynamic and versatile winger capable of impacting games on either flank. With his blend of power, pace, and technical ability, Madueke would not only offer rotational cover but also push for a starting role as the Gunners aim to maintain their competitiveness at the top of the Premier League and in European competitions.