Arsenal FC’s summer transfer plans have hit an unexpected snag — from their own fans.
The North London club is reportedly close to completing a £52 million deal for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, but not everyone is on board. A growing number of Arsenal supporters have taken to Change.org, signing a petition titled #NoToMadueke, which has already gained over 4,000 signatures.
Madueke, 23, is being eyed by manager Mikel Arteta as a way to strengthen the club’s attacking depth ahead of the new season. Arsenal has reportedly agreed on personal terms with the England international, and internal assessments of his fit with the squad have been positive.
However, sections of the fan base are voicing strong opposition.
“We are so close to success, and instead of moving forward, it feels like we’re going backwards,” wrote petition creator Blaze Fifty.
Many believe Arsenal should aim for bigger names, especially when trying to support or compete with key players like Bukayo Saka.
Some fans have even labeled the petition “embarrassing,” suggesting it reflects poorly on the Arsenal fan community as a whole. Rival fans have chimed in too, defending the move and pointing out the club’s long-standing need for a reliable backup to Saka.
Meanwhile, Madueke remains with Chelsea, expected to feature in the Club World Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has refused to comment directly on Madueke’s future but maintains the winger remains a valued member of the squad.
As tensions simmer online, Arsenal seems set to move forward with the deal, whether the fans approve or not.