Arsenal may have had a quiet start to the 2025 summer transfer window, but that doesn’t mean Mikel Arteta is sitting idle. Behind the scenes, the Spanish tactician appears to be carefully plotting his next move, particularly to reinforce the wide attacking positions that remain a priority ahead of the new season.
With Nico Williams seemingly bound for Barcelona despite Arsenal’s long-standing interest, the Gunners are now turning their attention to other viable targets. And one name that has surfaced on Arteta’s radar is Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.
The 22-year-old had a mixed but promising season with the Blues, displaying flashes of brilliance without quite establishing himself as an undisputed starter. Now, uncertainty around his future at Stamford Bridge has opened a window of opportunity — one that Arsenal are reportedly eager to exploit.
Arsenal Monitoring the Situation Closely
While Madueke has yet to cement his place as a first-choice winger at Chelsea, his statistics from last season speak volumes. The former PSV Eindhoven star netted 11 goals across all competitions, including standout performances in the UEFA Conference League — a showing that did not go unnoticed.
Despite his contributions, The Telegraph reports that Madueke is not on Chelsea’s “untouchable” list, meaning the club could be open to discussions if a strong offer arrives. This revelation has sparked serious interest from Arsenal, who are looking to deepen their attacking options as they prepare for a return to Champions League contention.
Arteta, keen to add more pace and creativity to his flanks, sees Madueke as a player who fits the tactical mold of his high-press, quick-transition system. After failing to land Nico Williams, Madueke has now emerged as a serious alternative.
Enzo Maresca Reaffirms Madueke’s Role at Chelsea
However, Arsenal’s pursuit may not be as straightforward as it seems. New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, speaking during the Club World Cup 2025 campaign, was quick to issue a statement of intent regarding Madueke’s status at the club.
“Noni is our player, and we consider him an important part of our plans for the upcoming season,” said Maresca. The Italian coach acknowledged the inevitable speculation that surrounds transfer windows but insisted that Chelsea has no immediate plans to part ways with the England international.
“In preseason, there’s always noise — that’s normal. But Noni is with us, and we see him as a key figure moving forward,” Maresca reiterated.
Despite this, Chelsea are actively evaluating reinforcements for their wing department, particularly in light of Mykhailo Mudryk facing a potential long-term doping ban, and the uncertainty surrounding Jadon Sancho’s possible arrival.
Arsenal’s Chelsea Focus Doesn’t Stop at Madueke
Interestingly, Mаduеkе іѕn’t thе оnlу Chelsea рlауеr оn Arѕеnаl’ѕ wіѕhlіѕt this ѕummеr. The North London сlub hаvе also bееn linked wіth gоаlkеереr Kepa Arrіzаbаlаgа, reportedly соnѕіdеrіng triggering his €5 mіllіоn rеlеаѕе clause. Hоwеvеr, nо оffісіаl аnnоunсеmеnt has been made so fаr.
Madueke, nonetheless, remains a primary target due to his explosive pace, strong dribbling skills, and ability to stretch defenses — attributes that could add an extra dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
But with Madueke still under a long-term contract at Chelsea and Maresca making it clear that the winger is in his future plans, any potential deal will likely come at a steep price. Arsenal will have to decide whether to test Chelsea’s resolve with a substantial offer, or pivot to other alternatives.
Arsenal’s interest in Noni Madueke signals their intent to build a dynamic, youthful squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts. While Chelsea remain firm in their stance, the unpredictability of the transfer market means nothing is off the table.
As the summer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether the Gunners make a formal move — and whether Madueke is tempted by the opportunity for a fresh start under Mikel Arteta at the Emirates.
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