Arsenal have learnt how much it will cost to sign Chelsea star Noni Madueke having opened talks with their arch-rivals over a transfer.
After falling short in the Premier League title race for the third season in a row, Mikel Arteta is very keen on bolstering his attack this summer.
A new striker is the priority but a transfer for top target Benjamin Sesko is proving hard to complete with Arsenal’s latest offer just short of the RB Leipzig star’s £64million release clause.
The Gunners also want to bring in another wide player and have already missed out on long-time target Nico Williams who looks set to join Barcelona.
In the last few days, Madueke has emerged as a surprising name on their shortlist after enjoying a good season at Chelsea, recording 16 goal contributions in 41 games and winning the Conference League title.
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The 23-year-old also made his England debut and appears to be key member of Thomas Tuchel’s squad going forward.
It would seem strange for Enzo Maresca to sell Madueke, especially given that he is short on wide options, yet he is one of 15 players the club have put on the transfer list.
According to the Independent, Arsenal’s interest has grown as they have spoken to their London rivals about a deal for the player who previously spent four years in Tottenham’s academy.
And the Blues have named their price, wanting £50million for the forward who cost £30m from PSV in January 2023.
While this is cheaper than alternative targets like Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon, Arsenal have baulked at the price tag and have cooled their interest for now.
Noni Madueke Chelsea stats
Appearances: 89
Goals: 20
Assists: 9
Trophies: Conference League
But it is said that this transfer saga is far from over and the Gunners may yet make another move for Madueke before the end of the summer transfer window.
Whilst fierce rivals, many players have moved between Arsenal and Chelsea in the Premier League era, with Kepa Arrizabalaga set to switch Stamford Bridge for the Emirates very soon.
For now, Madueke is at the Club World Cup and could next play on Wednesday when the Blues take on ES Tunis.
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