Arsenal’s big-money move for Noni Madueke has drawn criticism, but it addresses one of their biggest failures, writes Dylan Johnson.
Arsenal have agreed a £52-million deal to sign Madueke from Chelsea, a move that underlines their intention to build squad depth ahead of a demanding season. The fee is significant, but in a market where Premier League-ready, left-footed wingers are rare, it reflects his value.
🚨💣 EXCLUSIVE: Noni Madueke to Arsenal, here we go! Fee agreed in excess of £50m with add-ons included, green light from Chelsea.
Madueke already agreed five year deal at Arsenal days ago and he’s now set to complete the move.
The winger leaves #CFC to join #AFC. pic.twitter.com/Cjeqnlswle
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 10, 2025
Madueke, 23, is not arriving to displace Bukayo Saka. Instead, his role is to support the England winger, who has struggled with a recurring hamstring injury after two years of near-constant football. Madueke’s ability to operate on either flank makes him a direct alternative to Saka, giving Mikel Arteta a rotation option the club lacked last season.
Although he won’t be a guaranteed starter, Madueke’s impact from the bench could be decisive. He contributed 11 goals and five assists in 46 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea in 2024–25 and has shown development in key areas, particularly in ball carrying and shot creation. Arsenal’s system could suit his one-v-one quality and ability to strike off either foot.
In terms of valuation, his fee compares well to similar players. Spurs have agreed a deal worth over £50m for Mohammed Kudus, while Brentford are demanding more than £65m for Bryan Mbeumo, who has just one year left on his deal.
Beyond Madueke, the deal also opens up tactical flexibility. Ethan Nwaneri, who has often featured on the wing in cameo appearances, could now be moved centrally, offering a creative option behind Martin Ødegaard, whose output declined significantly in the 2024–25 season.
Madueke isn’t a transformational signing on his own, but he’s a logical addition. If used well, he could help manage the workload on key starters and reduce the team’s reliance on Saka in high-pressure moments. For a side aiming to win multiple trophies, that kind of depth is essential.
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