The summer transfer window is heating up fast, and one name that’s drawing a lot of attention is Noni Madueke.
Arsenal are reportedly closing in on the talented Chelsea winger, and while personal terms seem to be sorted already, the real hurdle now is the fee—and Chelsea aren’t making that part easy.
Despite the growing buzz, Stamford Bridge isn’t ready to let him go for cheap.
A Strong Season but a Crowded Future at Chelsea
Madueke, now 23, had a solid campaign under new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca.
He played in 32 of the team’s 38 Premier League games last season, starting in 27 of them, and chipped in with seven goals and three assists.
That’s a decent return and shows his growth as a first-team regular.
But with Chelsea stacking up attacking talent—bringing in the likes of Liam Delap, Kendry Paez, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Estevao Willian—Madueke suddenly finds himself in a crowded field.
It’s clear Chelsea have big plans, and there may no longer be space for him in their long-term picture.
Arsenal and Madueke Reportedly Shake Hands on a Deal
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal and Madueke have already agreed on personal terms.
The deal on the table? A five-year contract that would keep him at the Emirates until June 2030.
That’s a major signal of intent from the Gunners, who are clearly eager to strengthen their frontline after falling short in the goals department last season.
Chelsea Dig in Their Heels on Transfer Fee
Here’s where things get tricky. While Madueke might be keen to make the move—and Arsenal seem ready to welcome him—Chelsea are holding firm on their valuation.
According to The Telegraph, they won’t entertain anything under £50 million, and they’re actually hoping to land more than that.
From Chelsea’s perspective, it makes financial sense.
They signed Madueke from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 for £26 million, and anything north of £50 million would give them a tidy profit.
It’s also worth noting that Madueke is still on a seven-and-a-half-year contract, so Chelsea have plenty of negotiating power.
Arsenal’s Summer Transfer Plans Taking Shape
It’s no secret that Arsenal are in the market for more attacking firepower this summer.
After scoring 69 Premier League goals last season—22 fewer than the year before—manager Mikel Arteta is keen to sharpen his front line.
Alongside Madueke, Arsenal have also been linked with Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, two major names that show just how serious they are about bolstering their squad.
Madueke Focused on Club World Cup Glory for Now
While talks between Arsenal and Chelsea continue, Madueke still has business to finish at Stamford Bridge.
He was part of the Chelsea squad that won the UEFA Europa Conference League last season, and he’s now eyeing another title—the FIFA Club World Cup.
Chelsea are set to face Fluminense in the semi-finals on Tuesday, with the winner going on to meet either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in the final.
It could be a fitting farewell for Madueke if the transfer deal goes through afterward.
What’s Next for Madueke and the Gunners?
At this point, it’s a waiting game. Arsenal have made their move, the player’s on board, but Chelsea are digging in for a top-dollar deal.
With weeks left in the window and pressure mounting on both sides, fans will be watching closely to see if the two London clubs can find common ground.
For now, though, Madueke’s boots are still Chelsea blue—at least until the Club World Cup comes to a close.