Chelsea Allows Noni Madueke Arsenal Medical Ahead £52m Transfer

Arsenal has agreed a £52 million deal to sign Noni Madueke from Chelsea, with the 23-year-old England international set to become the second player to move from Chelsea to Arsenal this summer after goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Mikel Arteta has been a key advocate for the transfer, having spoken with Madueke before the clubs reached an agreement, viewing him as a strong attacking option and a potential backup for Bukayo Saka. Despite Madueke's promising skills as a direct dribbler and winger, his time at Chelsea was marked by disciplinary issues and a strained relationship with manager Enzo Maresca, which contributed to Chelsea's willingness to sell. Chelsea initially delayed Madueke's medical with Arsenal because they wanted him available for the Club World Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain, although personal terms and the transfer fee have been agreed. Arsenal’s history of signing players from Chelsea continues, and speculation suggests more Chelsea players might join Arsenal in the future. Madueke’s move is part of Arsenal's broader strategy to bolster their squad with versatile attacking talent ahead of the new season.