Arsenal transfers 'in the balance' as Mikel Arteta faces tough decision on star player

Arsenal are in advanced talks with Chelsea over the signing of Noni Madueke having already had one offer turned downfootball.london understands. The England international has already agreed personal terms with the Gunners and is believed to be excited about the prospect of the move.

The club could end up paying around £50million for the winger, who has struggled to establish himself regularly in the Chelsea side with Enzo Maresca. The move has received criticism among the Arsenal fan base, with some crossing lines and causing the player to take action.

The move is unpopular to many for several reasons. The fact that Arsenal would be signing yet another Chelsea player after the parade of players who have moved from west to north London is difficult for many to understand.

The club have had mixed results from the signing, and even the positive returns of Jorginho and Kai Havertz were undermined by a very poor loan spell from Raheem Sterling, who Madueke would effectively be replacing in the squad for next season as competition for Bukayo Saka. For some time now, the club have needed better cover for their talisman and the hope is Madueke can be that and potentially more too, with some versatility to play in other positions.

The problem Arteta has is elsewhere in the recruitment department. Should deals for the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze or potentially Rodrygo become impossible due to dropping £50million on a player who is essentially seen as cover for the likes of Saka who starts almost every game, that would be difficult to understand.

Some reports in Portugal have suggested that the deal for the Swedish striker in particular are in the balance and at risk of collapsing. So far, there has yet to be an update from anywhere outside of Sporting CP's country of origin, as discussions are understood to be continuing.

Arteta stuck his neck out with the signing of Havertz and for most, it has paid off. His role in the 2023/24 season saw a side break records in goalscoring and win rate but sadly fell just two points short of the title.

After an injury put an end to his 2024/25 season halfway through, Havertz has returned with a new focus, a new stature and a new hunger for the season. But Arteta again is risking his reputation with a signing like Madueke.

Before a ball has even been kicked, the failure to complete further business will naturally be associated with this deal. It will add pressure to the player, the club and of course the manager in a season where expectations are already sky high.

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