Arsenal are edging closer towards a deal for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke as they look to make their first attacking signing of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners have been in pursuit of attacking targets this summer in the wake of a season in which they could have done with more firepower, both centrally and on the flanks.
Madueke has already agreed personal terms over a move to Arsenal, and now the likes of David Ornstein and Florian Plettenberg have shared updates which shows the Gunners are on the right track.
Ornstein took to X on Wednesday afternoon to report that Arsenal are now in direct talks with Chelsea over Madueke.
The two sides are yet to strike a deal, but Madueke is prioritising a move to the Emirates Stadium ahead of other suitors, added The Athletic journalist.
Meanwhile, Plettenberg of Sky Sport Germany provided further information about what is set to happen further down the line if all goes well.
Madueke is just waiting on the two clubs to find an agreement, and then he’ll be ready to undergo his medical, wrote Plettenberg.
Arsenal’s interest in Madueke goes back to at least 2020, so Arteta will be buzzing over the fact the Gunners are closing in on one of his long-term targets.
Madueke has won numerous plaudits over the years. For instance, Mauricio Pochettino loves Madueke, having previously deemed him “unbelievable”.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde once named Madueke as one of his toughest opponents.
Although Madueke plays for Arsenal’s London rivals, he has spoken highly of the Gunners in the past.
Madueke showed his admiration for Arsenal in November 2024 by calling the Gunners a “great team” ahead of a London derby between the two sides in the Premier League.
“They’re still a great team and they’ve challenged for the title for the last couple of years… in terms of us, we are just going to prepare for this as we do any other match,” said Madueke.
“There’s always a little bit of bragging rights with the boys but I’m going into Sunday trying to win for sure…but there’s always that added rivalry when you play with them for the national team as well.”
Madueke also sang Bukayo Saka’s praises, adding: “Even as an academy player, the north London derbies were always super competitive.
“Bukayo was always a great player. He was a goal threat, fast, strong and always made the right decisions – just like he does now.”
