Arsenal are on the hunt for attacking firepower this summer.
Arsenal have made enquiries for Eberechi Eze and the Crystal Palace talisman is said to be keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Xabi Alonso will allow Rodrygo to leave Real Madrid amid interest in the winger from the Gunners but the Spanish giants are only willing to sell for the right price.
A deal for Rodrygo could prove to be out of Andrea Berta’s reach, therefore Arsenal have opened talks with Noni Madueke. The player’s current boss Enzo Maresca has just sent a clear message to the 23-year-old.
Enzo Maresca only wants ‘happy’ players at Chelsea amid Noni Madueke’s Arsenal links
Chelsea have booked their place in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final following a 2-1 victory over Palmeiras.
Speaking at his post-match press conference, Blues boss Maresca was asked about the future of Madueke after the winger came on as a second half substitute.
Maresca stated: “Noni has been very important for us this season. Today, again, he has been important. But my message to the players and the club is that I only want players that are happy to be with us.”
“The [players] who are not happy are free to go. It’s not Noni’s fault for all the players we have. But again, Noni has been very good during this season and very good tonight.”
Chelsea are demanding £50m for Madueke and at that price, the Gunners would surely turn their attentions elsewhere. However, it seems that Maresca would not stand in the way should the England international want to leave.
How Noni Madueke compared with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli last season
It was an exciting campaign for Madueke having earned his first England cap and helped Chelsea to UEFA Conference League success, whilst also securing Champions League qualification.
Mikel Arteta likes to sign players with Premier League experience and Madueke’s ability to play on both flanks will also be an attraction for the Gunners’ boss.
| Statistics last season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Madueke | 41 | 11 | 5 |
| Saka | 37 | 12 | 14 |
| Martinelli | 51 | 10 | 6 |
There is no doubt that Madueke would help provide further strength in depth to Arteta’s attacking options.
However, Arsenal supporters will be asking whether he is the calibre of player that can elevate the Gunners to finally landing a major trophy.
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