Arsenal 'strike Noni Madueke agreement' as exciting transfer moves big step closer

Arsenal have reportedly agreed personal terms with Noni Madueke ahead of a potential transfer. Chelsea could now be set to receive a formal proposal from the Gunners, although it has been claimed that no face-to-face talks have taken place between the Premier League rivals just yet.

Both teams have an excellent relationship and players have swapped between the two clubs in the past. Arsenal have signed Kepa Arrizabalaga, Kai Havertz and Jorginho from their London neighbours in very recent history. Madueke could reportedly be next in line if the north Londoners can agree a fee with Chelsea. Arsenal are keen to improve their wide positions, with the 23-year-old able to play on both sides of the attack.

According to The Athletic, Madueke has agreed personal terms with Arsenal and has been persuaded by Mikel Arteta's project. An approach to Chelsea is now reportedly being considered as the Gunners step up their pursuit of the former PSV attacker.

Despite an impressive season in the Premier League, Madueke's place in Chelsea's regular starting 11 has been placed under threat this summer. Joao Pedro, a versatile forward who can play out wide, has arrived from Brighton, while England youth international winger Jamie Gittens will also provide competition in Madueke's position after signing from Borussia Dortmund. Incoming Brazilian teenager Estevao Willian can also play on both wings, while Pedro Neto has enjoyed a positive campaign at the Club World Cup.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca left Madueke, who scored 11 goals last term, out of two matchday squads in 2024-25. He was dropped for a 3-0 win over Aston Villa in December due to his training performances. Maresca then claimed leaving the former Tottenham and Crystal Palace youngster out of a defeat against Fulham later that month as a "technical decision".

Should he join Arsenal, Madueke will find strong competition from Bukayo Saka for his favoured position on the right. However, he can also play on the left - a position the Gunners are reportedly keen to improve. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard were both used in that role last season.

Arsenal are determined to improve their attack this summer after falling 10 points short of Liverpool in the Premier League title race last season. Potential deals for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze and Aston Villa ace Morgan Rogers have also been explored this summer.

Arteta may also hope that the club soon makes progress with a move for Sporting forward Viktor Gyokeres. Arsenal played for much of last season without a recognised centre-forward.