Arsenal - Mikel Arteta
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Chelsea have significantly raised their asking price for winger Noni Madueke to over £55 million, drawing comparisons to Newcastle United’s imminent £55 million move for Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, according to journalist Ben Jacobs. The development presents a fresh challenge for Arsenal, who are in advanced talks for the England international but now face a larger financial hurdle to get the deal over the line.
Arsenal have already agreed personal terms with the 23-year-old on a proposed five-year deal, as reported by The Athletic, but no agreement has been reached between the two clubs. Chelsea’s new valuation, inspired by Newcastle’s escalating bid for Elanga, has widened the gap in negotiations, with Arsenal expected to counter with an offer in the region of £40–£45 million.
“Chelsea want a £55m+ package for Noni Madueke, citing Anthony Elanga’s Newcastle move. Arsenal will try for £40m–£45m,” noted transfer expert Ben Jacobs on X, underlining the valuation standoff between the London rivals.
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Madueke, who joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven for £29 million in January 2023, impressed during the 2024/25 season with 11 goals and five assists in 45 appearances across all competitions, including standout performances in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. His pace, dribbling, and ability to operate on both flanks have made him a key target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who is looking to add depth and competition to his wide options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Arsenal - Noni Madueke
Noni Madueke (Image credit: Getty Images)
Chelsea’s willingness to cash in on Madueke is largely due to increased competition in their attacking department. The Blues have already secured Liam Delap from Ipswich for £30 million, Joao Pedro from Brighton in a deal worth up to £60 million, and Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund for an initial £48.5 million. Brazilian wonderkid Estevão Willian is also expected to arrive soon, further limiting Madueke’s chances of regular first-team football under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
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While Madueke featured in 32 of Chelsea’s 38 Premier League games last season, he was left out of a number of key fixtures due to “technical decisions.” The winger is understood to be open to the Arsenal move, with personal terms not expected to be an obstacle.
Meanwhile, Arsenal remain active in the market, despite recent setbacks. Their pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres has stalled due to disagreements over payment terms, while talks for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze are progressing, with a £45 million deal plus add-ons reportedly close.
The Gunners have already secured Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, and Christian Nørgaard from Brentford, reflecting a determined recruitment drive led by new sporting director Andrea Berta. However, as the Madueke negotiations evolve, Arsenal will need to decide whether to meet Chelsea’s new valuation or turn to alternative targets.
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