Arsenal legend Sol Campbell has voiced his concerns over the club’s £52 million move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, calling on the Gunners’ hierarchy to clarify the reasoning behind the summer signing.
The deal, which makes Madueke Arsenal’s fourth acquisition of the window, has left sections of the fanbase puzzled, with many questioning whether the England international is truly needed.
Madueke, who has Nigerian heritage, has enjoyed a steady rise in English football since joining Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023.
The 23-year-old has made 92 appearances for the Blues, scoring 20 goals across all competitions.
Despite his attacking qualities and versatility, doubts remain about where he fits in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
“I think most people are probably thinking, ‘Do we need him?’” said Campbell.
“He’s a quality player, but I think the club needs to explain why they’re getting certain players in and how it’s going to fit into our system. It’s important to explain that to the players and the fans.”
While Madueke’s youth and potential are attractive qualities, his inconsistency and development curve at Chelsea reportedly fell short of expectations.
A Guardian report suggests the Blues had grown uncertain over his progress, potentially prompting the sale.
For Arteta, however, Madueke may represent a project — a dynamic attacker with raw qualities that could be moulded to suit Arsenal’s evolving attacking structure. Whether or not he becomes a regular starter remains to be seen, but with Champions League football returning to the Emirates, depth and competition are likely key considerations.
