Arsenal have officially completed the shock signing of Noni Madueke from London rivals Chelsea in a deal worth up to £52 million.
The Gunners will pay £48.5 million upfront, with a potential £3.5 million in add-ons.
The 23-year-old winger, who has agreed to a five-year deal at the Emirates Stadium, becomes Arsenal’s fourth summer recruit following the arrivals of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, midfielder Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard.
Predominantly deployed on the right flank but comfortable on the left, Madueke adds further depth to an Arsenal attack already headlined by Bukayo Saka.
Despite the club’s optimism, the transfer has triggered significant debate among fans and pundits alike.
Madueke’s transfer also continues a growing trend, becoming the seventh player in six years to cross the divide between Chelsea and Arsenal, following the paths of Kepa, Raheem Sterling, Kai Havertz, Jorginho, Willian, and David Luiz.
The former PSV Eindhoven star joined Chelsea for £29 million in 2023 and went on to net 20 goals in 92 games.
He played a key role in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League triumph last season and contributed to their Club World Cup success in the United States.
However, his exit comes amid another wave of Chelsea attacking reinforcements, with Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Jamie Gittens joining the Blues from Ipswich Town, Brighton, and Borussia Dortmund respectively.
Despite the move being finalized, Arsenal’s decision has sparked fierce online backlash.
