Ornstein: Chelsea now in direct negotiations over another Premier League transfer | OneFootball

Just when it looked like it might be a quiet afternoon, top transfer insider David Ornstein has turned up with a major transfer exclusive.

The Athletic’s transfer man is back with a major update on the rumours about Chelsea winger Noni Madueke and a potential move to Arsenal. He says the Gunners have “made contact with Chelsea” over the signing, having already agreed personal terms with the winger over a proposed 5 year deal.

He adds that no deal has been made yet – but also that the England player is prioritising Arsenal “above any other interested sides.”

Madueke closes in on move away after two and a half years at Chelsea

David Ornstein’s Tweet about Noni Madueke’s rumoured move to Arsenal.

All signs are now pointing to this happening. While a fee has to be agreed, there’s no way that both teams would have let things come so far on the player side if they didn’t think there was common ground to be found in terms of the fee.

Selling Madueke will by no means be a universally popular move among Chelsea fans. While he’s still frustrating at times, he’s made big improvements in his two and a half years at the club, and some are convinced we’re selling him on just as he’s about to establish himself as a top winger.

Transfer could be wrapped up very soon as summer sales get into gear

Things are likely to move pretty quickly now. Chelsea will be returning from the Club World Cup next week and their focus at that point is likely to be purely on sales. With personal terms agreed, we could yet see things advance super quickly.

The question then becomes – is new signing Jamie Gittens a major upgrade on Madueke long term? It’s a debate that could go on for some time.