Arsenal Have ‘Set Sights’ on £50m Move to Sign Chelsea Forward – Report | OneFootball

Arsenal Eye Chelsea’s Noni Madueke After Nico Williams Setback

Arsenal’s summer transfer strategy has taken a sharp turn following the disappointment of missing out on Nico Williams. The Athletic Club star, long admired by Mikel Arteta’s camp, appears Barcelona-bound, forcing the Gunners to shift their focus. According to a report from CaughtOffside, Chelsea’s Noni Madueke has now emerged as a “serious candidate” under consideration.

Williams’ desire to join the Catalan giants “has been a major blow to Arsenal’s chances of signing him,” according to the same source. While that chase has seemingly ended, Arsenal remain determined to bolster their wide attacking options, with Madueke now very much on their radar.

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Noni Madueke on the Move?

Despite being only 23, Noni Madueke is already attracting serious interest across Europe. Napoli, AC Milan, Newcastle United and now Arsenal are all setting their sights on the England U21 international’s situation. CaughtOffside report that Chelsea are “open to considering offers,” even if they haven’t formally placed him on the market.

Although his season at Stamford Bridge showed promise, with moments of electric pace and creativity, Madueke managed just seven Premier League goals. That inconsistency, coupled with a change in managerial direction under Enzo Maresca, has left the winger’s long-term future in doubt.

The internal view at Chelsea, according to CaughtOffside, is that “the winger is not viewed as a key figure in the long-term project,” suggesting that an exit this summer is more probable than possible. With a price tag set initially at €60–65 million, reports suggest the Blues would be open to a bid closer to €50 million.

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Arsenal and Newcastle Compete, Italy Watches Closely

Arsenal are not alone in the race. Newcastle United have also shown keen interest in Madueke, with Eddie Howe reportedly eager to strengthen his squad for their upcoming Champions League campaign.

Meanwhile, interest from Serie A is intensifying. CaughtOffside confirm that “Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna reportedly traveled to London for direct talks with Chelsea representatives.” AC Milan, too, see the winger as a “potential long-term asset.”

This growing demand may soon drive up the asking price, which makes Arsenal’s early engagement important if they are to succeed in securing Madueke’s signature.

Arteta’s Wider Transfer Picture

Madueke is just one of several names linked to the Gunners this summer. CaughtOffside also mention Brentford’s Christian Norgaard and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers as additional targets. These moves suggest Arteta and Edu are pursuing both experienced heads and promising talent, keeping the club’s broader tactical goals in mind.

As Arsenal look to build on a strong 2024–25 campaign, attacking reinforcements are clearly high on the list. The club’s recruitment strategy appears to be centred on versatility, youth, and Premier League-proven ability — all of which Madueke can provide if given the right environment.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal fan’s point of view, this shift from Nico Williams to Noni Madueke feels like a necessary but risky pivot. Williams seemed like the ideal fit — explosive, high ceiling, and already showing star quality on the international stage. Madueke, though talented, feels like more of a project.

There’s no doubt the Chelsea winger possesses the raw tools to shine: pace, technical skill and flair in 1v1s. But the key question is whether he can deliver consistently in a team challenging for trophies. A return of just seven goals last season doesn’t scream reliability. That said, Chelsea’s instability and tactical confusion may have hindered his growth more than his own flaws.

What might appeal to Arteta is Madueke’s ceiling. At 23, he fits the profile of a player who can be moulded, and Arsenal’s environment could give him the clarity and coaching he arguably hasn’t had at Stamford Bridge. If the fee can be negotiated closer to €45–50 million, it might end up looking like a savvy move.

Still, fans will rightly be cautious. Arsenal have shown they are close to competing at the very highest level. Signings this summer must reflect that ambition. Madueke could be part of that vision, but only if the club truly believes he can hit elite levels quickly.