Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Noni Madueke from Chelsea, adding yet another exciting attacking option to Mikel Arteta’s growing squad. The 23-year-old joins the Gunners in a deal worth £52 million and has penned a five-year contract at the Emirates.
Madueke was unveiled at London Colney on Friday afternoon, with both the club and the player expressing optimism about the future. Mikel Arteta called him an “exciting and powerful young player,” while Madueke shared a heartfelt message on social media, describing the move as “special.”
Madueke receives well-wishes and a cheeky warning
The winger’s announcement was met with a flood of messages from across the footballing world. Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard, Jurrien Timber, Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Ian Maatsen were among those who publicly welcomed the England international to his new chapter.
However, it was Wesley Fofana’s cheeky comment that stood out. The Chelsea defender, who played alongside Madueke at Stamford Bridge, joked under the player’s Instagram post: “See you on the field, protect your ankles, we are enemies now! All the best mon frère.”
Screenshot of replies under Noni Madueke’s Instagram post about his move from Chelsea to Arsenal Credit: @nonzinoo10 Instagram
Ian Wright also responded with his trademark enthusiasm, making it clear how excited he is to see what Madueke can bring to the Emirates.
How Arteta plans to use Noni Madueke
Madueke’s arrival gives Arsenal more tactical flexibility, particularly on the flanks. According to TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey, the former Chelsea man is expected to serve primarily as a right-wing alternative to Bukayo Saka. That should allow Arteta to rotate more effectively without losing dynamism in the final third.
Still, his role isn’t expected to be limited to just one position. There’s growing expectation that Madueke could be tested on the left or even centrally depending on Arsenal’s transfer activity. With ongoing interest in players like Eberechi Eze and Rodrygo, the left wing could soon see significant change — especially if Leandro Trossard is sold.
From what we understand, Madueke is not coming to sit on the bench. The club sees him as a long-term investment with a unique profile — a left-footed winger who’s also extremely two-footed, dangerous in one-vs-one situations, and direct in transition.
A move that ticks all the right boxes
Arsenal have long needed a genuine backup for Saka — but Madueke is more than that. He’s a player capable of pushing for starts, offering versatility, and injecting new energy into the final third. And if early reactions are anything to go by, this move could prove to be one of the shrewdest of the summer.
