Enzo Maresca Delivers Confident Statement on Noni Madueke's Future Amid Transfer Speculation
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea's head coach, has expressed confidence in Noni Madueke's ability to handle the transfer speculation linking him with Arsenal, as the Gunners contemplate submitting an offer for the English winger.
Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Madueke while exploring their options for the upcoming summer transfer period, though negotiations between the clubs remain in early stages with no certainty of a completed transaction.
The transfer rumors intensified prior to Chelsea's Club World Cup quarter-final victory against Palmeiras, where Madueke featured as a substitute for the closing 30 minutes. Maresca confirmed before Tuesday's semi-final clash with Fluminense that he remains willing to utilize the 23-year-old player.
"I believe the same speculation existed before the Palmeiras match, yet we still gave him thirty minutes and his performance was excellent, so I have complete confidence that Noni will contribute when we require his services," Maresca stated during his pre-match media briefing.
"Simultaneously, I recognize that from a human perspective, managing constant speculation around oneself presents challenges, but I trust he can handle the situation effectively."
Chelsea reportedly aren't actively pursuing Madueke's departure but remain receptive to offers meeting their valuation, particularly following UEFA's financial penalties that require the club to generate funds through player departures.
Christopher Nkunku, João Félix and Axel Disasi represent several squad players who might depart to address the financial shortfall, though none possess Madueke's market value, with the winger anticipated to fetch no less than £50 million ($68.1 million) should he transfer.
Arsenal must evaluate this asking price, having already invested £60 million ($81.7 million) in Martín Zubimendi and reportedly nearing completion of a deal for Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyökeres valued at approximately £70 million ($95.3 million).