Arteta signals Madueke exit as Barcelona lure looms

Mikel Arteta has told Arsenal that England winger Noni Madueke can depart in the January transfer window, and reports suggest a lucrative offer has emerged for Barcelona star Raphinha. Arsenal originally invested £52 million in Madueke when they signed him from London rivals Chelsea in 2025.

Why Arsenal spent £52 million on Madueke

The England international featured for Thomas Tuchel’s side at the World Cup and was a rotation option for Arteta last season, starting sixteen Premier League matches. His pace and directness were seen as a complement to the Gunners’ attacking set‑up, especially when Bukayo Saka was unavailable.

Since Saka’s full return to fitness, Madueke’s role has dwindled; he has made only two substitute appearances in Arsenal’s first four Premier League games this campaign. The reduced minutes have sparked speculation that the player may seek regular football elsewhere.

Interest from Europe and possible loan deals

Spanish side Atletico Madrid and Italian outfit Juventus are reportedly examining a January move for Madueke, with loan arrangements that could include an option to buy seen as the most realistic formula. Caught Offside added: “No formal negotiations are said to have taken place yet, but Atlético see the England international as a player who could add pace and directness to Diego Simeone’s attack.”

Fichajes reported that Juventus are exploring low‑cost options to bolster their squad in January and that a loan for Madueke would fit their plan if Arsenal are willing to negotiate. The source stressed that no price has been set for a potential purchase option and that discussions remain in a monitoring phase.

Spanish manager Arteta signs long‑term deal as Arsenal hail unique bond

Meanwhile, reports in Spain indicate Arsenal could line up a replacement by offering Barcelona superstar Raphinha a significant salary increase, currently just over €16 million gross per year at the Camp Nou. The report quotes that Raphinha is demanding to be among the highest‑paid players at Barça, alongside Lamine Yamal and Rodrigo Hernández.

Hans‑Dieter Flick was quoted as saying the first‑team captain is happy in Spain and has no intention of leaving, providing Arsenal with a clear path to replace Madueke if needed. The club’s willingness to let the winger exit aligns with their broader strategy to optimise the squad ahead of the second half of the season.

Madueke’s lack of minutes at the Emirates will likely be a concern for the player, and the reported willingness of Arteta to let him leave suggests a mutually beneficial solution. While no formal negotiations have begun, the interest from Atletico and Juventus indicates that a January loan could materialise.

Arsenal move for this talented midfielder should Arteta snap him

Should a move occur, Arsenal stand to free up wages and potentially recoup part of the £52 million outlay, while Madueke could secure the regular playing time he desires. The Gunners remain focused on maintaining their Premier League push, with Bukayo Saka back in the side and the squad depth reinforced by potential new signings.