Arsenal lodge big-money opening bid for Noni Madueke but Chelsea set to demand even more as ex-Man Utd star is used as transfer reference point

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners' opening offer isn't quite enough for Chelsea, who are using Forest's £55m ($75m) sale of Anthony Elanga as a reference point and therefore seeking "more than £50m fixed". The relationship between the two clubs remains solid, however, and talks will continue in the coming days.

Madueke recently agreed personal terms with Arsenal after unexpectedly being included in a list of players Chelsea are looking to move on this summer. The 23-year-old was a solid performer in the Premier League last season, contributing seven goals and four assists, but head coach Enzo Maresca appears to have judged that he has better attacking options at his disposal.

After Madueke agreed terms with Arsenal, shock reports emerged that Chelsea were eyeing up a move for Ethan Nwaneri in the opposite direction. The teenager enjoyed a seriously impressive breakout season in 2024-25, but Madueke's arrival could limit his game time at the Emirates, and there will be plenty of potential suitors waiting in the wings for Nwaneri if he becomes unsettled, including Chelsea.

Ultimately, this comes down to how much Arsenal think the young England winger is worth. Chelsea are holding out for more than £50m, but splashing that kind of cash on Madueke could limit the Gunners' spending in other departments. The signing of an elite-level striker like Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres will likely remain the top priority for Arteta this summer, but whether that impacts the Madueke deal remains to be seen.