Arsenal’s planned £52 million signing of Chelsea winger Noni Madueke has sparked outrage among a section of the club’s fans, with thousands signing an online petition to stop the move.
The petition, titled #NoToMadueke, was launched on Change.org on Wednesday and quickly gathered over 4,000 signatures. Many fans expressed frustration, saying the deal does not reflect the ambition the club needs to compete at the top level.
Madueke, 23, is reportedly close to joining the Gunners, with personal terms already agreed. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season.
But some fans are not convinced. The petition’s creator, Blaze Fifty, criticised the move, saying: “Arsenal fans deserve better. We are close to winning trophies, but this signing feels like a step backwards.”
The backlash has caused mixed reactions online. While some supporters condemned the petition as embarrassing, others defended the right of fans to question the club’s transfer choices.
“This is the same club that’s been crying out for a backup for Bukayo Saka,” one fan wrote. “Now they’re rejecting a young English winger with Premier League experience?”
Despite the noise, Arsenal are continuing talks with Chelsea to finalise the deal. Madueke is still part of Chelsea’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup and is expected to play in the final against Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday.
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca declined to speak in detail about the player’s future but praised his commitment: “I have no doubt that if we need Noni, he will help us.”
As the deal nears completion, the Arsenal fanbase remains divided, a reflection of the high expectations placed on the club’s summer business after finishing second in the Premier League last season.
