Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that winger Noni Madueke is close to joining Arsenal in a big £52 million transfer.
Speaking to the media before Chelsea’s Club World Cup final against PSG, Maresca said Madueke made the choice himself to leave the club.
“Noni is talking to his new club. I think Arsenal will announce him very soon,” Maresca said.
He added, “I’ve said it before — if a player wants to go, it’s hard for the club and coach to stop him. Noni made that decision on his own. Nobody told him to leave. If he’s happy, then we’re happy too.”
Madueke has already returned to London to agree on personal terms with Arsenal and take his medical tests.
The deal is worth £52 million, including extra payments based on his performances.
The 23-year-old winger had 11 goals and assists combined this season and recently got called up to the England national team for the first time. But some reports say Chelsea had worries about his attitude and effort in training.
Even though he’s leaving, Chelsea are not short on options. New signing Joao Pedro, who scored twice in the semi-final win over Fluminense, is likely to take his place.
At Arsenal, Madueke is expected to fight for a starting spot with Gabriel Martinelli. There are also rumours that Leandro Trossard could be leaving Arsenal soon for Turkish club Fenerbahce.
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