Mikel Arteta finally gets his way on £52m Arsenal transfer after disagreement

Noni Madueke is an Arsenal player after finalising his £52million switch from Chelsea - and the talented England winger has been a long-term target for Mikel Arteta.

Madueke, 23, will add quality and depth across the frontline for the Gunners, who are also closing in on a blockbuster deal for the Sporting Lisbon striker, Viktor Gyokeres. They had also been in the market for another winger, hence their pursuit of Madueke.

Further signings in attack are possible including a swoop for Crystal Palace's sought-after playmaker, Eberechi Eze.

Arsenal's interest in Rodrygo has also been well documented, though it remains to be seen if they pursue a move for the Brazil international after signing Madueke.

And it has now emerged that Arteta was keen on signing Madueke in previous summer windows - but the club's previous sporting director, Edu, had doubts over a deal for the former PSV Eindhoven man.

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Edu and the club's scouting department had reservations over signing Madueke 12 months ago. But with Andrea Berta now operating as the club's sporting director, a deal has been done for a player who is a quality alternative option to Bukayo Saka on the right wing and capable of operating off the left, too.

While the deal for Madueke, which could rise to £52m if add-ons are met, has divided opinion among some fans, Arsenal are satisfied with their business.

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They feel they have landed one of the Premier League's most exciting young attackers for a reasonable price given the current market.

Speaking after the deal was confirmed, Arteta said: "Noni is an exciting and powerful young player, with his performances and numbers in recent seasons being of consistently high quality. He is one of the most talented wide forward players in the Premier League.

"At just 23, Noni already brings experience of club and international football, and he knows the Premier League very well. Having seen the quality of Noni’s performances up close in recent seasons, we’re really excited he is joining us.

"Noni joins our group with familiar England teammates and other players he knows. He will be made to feel at home straight away.

"His arrival will really improve our squad – we’re all thrilled to have him here. From all of us, welcome Noni and welcome to your family."

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