Sources: Madueke leaves for Arsenal medical

Noni Madueke has departed Chelsea's training camp to finalize a £50 million transfer to Arsenal, according to ESPN sources. The 23-year-old winger is scheduled for a medical examination on Saturday ahead of completing the move to the north London club.

Madueke participated in Chelsea's Club World Cup campaign, starting two matches during their run to Sunday's final against Paris Saint-Germain, though he remained on the bench during their semifinal victory over Fluminense. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca publicly confirmed the impending transfer during a Friday news conference, stating the club approved the move after Madueke expressed his desire to join Arsenal.

Maresca emphasized the player's personal decision, remarking: "Noni decided he wants to leave. Nobody said he had to. If he is happy, we are happy." The manager acknowledged the difficulty such departures pose for clubs but respected the player's choice.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, a long-standing admirer of the England international, had previously explored signing Madueke last summer. Despite Madueke's primary position being right wing—currently occupied by Bukayo Saka—Arteta believes he can develop the player into an effective left winger.

Having joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven in 2023 for €35 million, Madueke made 46 appearances last season, scoring 11 goals and providing 5 assists across all competitions. He notably started in Chelsea's Conference League final victory against Real Betis. This transfer marks Arsenal's second acquisition from Chelsea this summer following goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.