Chelsea winger Noni Madueke has agreed to a five-year contract with Arsenal, with the Gunners now set to open negotiations with their London rivals over a transfer fee for the Nigerian-English forward.
Madueke, 22, who is eligible to represent Nigeria through his father, is expected to leave Chelsea this summer as Arsenal intensify efforts to boost their attacking options.
Despite remaining involved in Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign, including a strong performance in their semifinal victory over Palmeiras, the winger’s time at Stamford Bridge appears to be drawing to a close.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Madueke’s professionalism amidst transfer speculation, saying: “We had the same noise before Palmeiras, but we gave him half an hour, and he was very good. I have no doubt if we need Noni, he can help us.”
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, personal terms between Arsenal and Madueke have already been agreed, with the winger committing to a five-year deal.
“Arsenal will have direct talks with Chelsea soon to discuss Noni Madueke deal. There’s a gap in valuation between the clubs but negotiations will now follow to understand if/how to proceed,” Romano reported.
Arsenal are determined to strengthen their frontline after no player hit double digits in league goals last season.
Manager Mikel Arteta is targeting reinforcements who can add creativity and goal contributions as the club prepares for another Premier League title challenge.
Madueke, who joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in 2023, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled for consistent minutes.
A move to the Emirates could offer the winger a new platform to showcase his potential under Arteta’s system.
Discussions between the two clubs are expected to accelerate in the coming days.
