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Arsenal Target Madueke as Transfers Heat Up Ahead of 2025/26 Title Race

As the Premier League summer window gathers pace, Arsenal have taken a bold step in their pursuit of Noni Madueke. According to David Ornstein, Arsenal have approached Chelsea for the England winger, with terms on a five-year contract already reportedly agreed. The move comes as part of a wider reshaping of Mikel Arteta’s squad as the Gunners aim to challenge Liverpool for the title in 2025/26.

Speaking on the AEye Scouted podcast for Anfield Index Pro, Dave Hendrick broke down the logic behind Arsenal’s transfer activity, particularly the Madueke deal. “Ornstein had previously reported that Maduekehad agreed terms on a five-year contract with Arsenal. It appears like tapping up is no longer even something that we frown upon in football,” Hendrick said with typical sarcasm, highlighting the blurred lines of modern recruitment.

Madueke’s Fit and the £50 Million Question

Karl Matchett gave a measured take on the Madueke-to-Arsenal rumours, weighing up the footballing merits and financial risk. “I like Madueke for Arsenal. I don’t really like it above, let’s say, 40,” he said. “I think it’s a massive overpay versus the quality you would get overseas.”

Madueke, who joined Chelsea from PSV in January 2023, is a right-footed winger capable of operating on both flanks. His style fits Arsenal’s need for directness and threat in wide areas, particularly given Bukayo Saka’s recent injury struggles and the inconsistent form of Gabriel Martinelli.

Photo: IMAGO

“I think Arsenal for quite a while have needed somebody who can really push and threaten Martinelli’s place,” Matchett explained. “He can play either side just as well… I think it would be a very, very good thing if Gabriel Martinelli is told your place is no longer secure.”

The price, though, remains a sticking point. With Anthony Elanga going for £55 million and Chelsea spending more on Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, both pundits questioned the scale of Premier League valuations. “Anything beyond [£50m] is pantomime to bad practice,” said Hendrick bluntly.

Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy and Title Ambitions

Despite the questions surrounding valuation, Hendrick was clear about Madueke’s utility within Arsenal’s system. “I still think there’s a big place for a traditional winger. And I think Madueke on the left with his ability to go outside and cross will be very beneficial,” he argued, particularly for a team “looking to bring in a number nine.”

The podcast also delved into the implications of the move on Arsenal’s tactical shape. If Arteta plans to deploy a 4-2-3-1, it raises further questions about squad balance and personnel decisions. “If they were to change the shape from 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1 and go Saka, Eze (was also discussed due to rumours), and Madueke behind what looks like Victor Gyökeres, okay, I can see that,” Hendrick admitted, though he remained sceptical that Martin Ødegaard would be dropped.

Chelsea’s Perspective and Market Inflation

From Chelsea’s side, Matchett highlighted the redundancy of hoarded wingers and the need for sales to streamline the squad. “Sterling has got to go and his £300,000-a-week wages,” he noted, listing off names like David Datro Fofana and Armando Broja as other attackers who “have to go.”

The bloated squad has led to financial acrobatics, but the Club World Cup final appearance offers relief. “By god is that going to help them out,” Matchett said. “João Pedro gets the two goals in the semi-final and pays back an awfully large chunk of the actual transfer fee within one game.”

Still, for Arsenal, this deal is less about Chelsea and more about taking the next step. “He fits them. I think he’ll be good for them,” Matchett summarised. With Arsenal aiming to dethrone Arne Slot’s Liverpool, signing Madueke would represent a significant gamble on youth, potential, and Premier League-proven pedigree.