Arsenal and Chelsea might be big rivals on the pitch, but when it comes to transfers, the two clubs have no problem doing business together. That continued this summer as Noni Madueke became the latest player to move from Chelsea to Arsenal.
The 23-year-old England winger joined the Gunners for £48.5 million, a fee that could rise to over £50 million with add-ons. He left Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad early to complete the move and has signed a five-year deal with Mikel Arteta’s side.
“Humbled and blessed to be here,” Madueke wrote on Instagram. “I can’t wait to get on the pitch and start to repay the faith shown in me. It’s going to be so special.”
Madueke becomes the 18th senior player to move directly from Chelsea to Arsenal. Some have gone on to do well in north London. Others haven’t been so lucky.
From Blue to Red: Chelsea Players Who Joined Arsenal
Over the years, Arsenal have brought in several players from Stamford Bridge—some for their experience, others for their potential. The results have been very mixed.
Petr Čech (2015–2019)
One of the better examples. Čech joined for £10m and won the Premier League’s Golden Glove in his first season. He added an FA Cup before retiring, though he never quite matched his best Chelsea form.
David Luiz (2019–2021)
Arrived with doubts hanging over him, but brought leadership and experience. Despite some mistakes, he was one of Arsenal’s more dependable defenders during his time.
Willian (2020–2021)
A free transfer that didn’t work out. He had a bright debut but struggled after that. Willian left after just one season, later calling it the “worst time” of his career.
Jorginho (2023–2025)
Signed as a cheaper alternative to Moisés Caicedo, Jorginho was never a regular starter but offered calmness and leadership. He left on a free after two seasons.
Kai Havertz (2023–present)
A £65m signing who had a tough start as a midfielder, but improved when moved up front. He ended the 2023–24 season strongly, but fans are still split on him.
Raheem Sterling (2024–2025, loan)
Signed on loan as emergency cover, Sterling failed to make an impact and returned to Chelsea after a quiet season.
William Gallas (2006–2010)
Came as part of the Ashley Cole deal. He was a solid defender and even became captain, but his time ended badly—and he later made things worse by joining Tottenham.
Lassana Diarra (2007)
Joined on Deadline Day but barely featured. He left just months later to join Portsmouth, before going on to play for Real Madrid and PSG.
Yossi Benayoun (2011–2012, loan)
A rare success story among loanees. Benayoun played 19 Premier League games, captained the side at times, and offered useful experience.
Kepa Arrizzabalaga [2025]
Can Madueke Break the Winger Curse?
Madueke joins with plenty of talent and promise, but history shows that wingers coming from Chelsea haven’t done well at Arsenal. Willian and Sterling both flopped, and even Benayoun had only a brief impact.
Madueke, though, is still young and on the up. After breaking through at PSV and showing glimpses of his ability at Chelsea, he’ll be hoping Arteta’s system helps him kick on.
“He’s one of the most talented wide players in the Premier League,” Arteta said. “We’re really excited to bring him in.”
A Transfer Route That Shows No Signs of Slowing
While the rivalry between the two clubs remains, the steady flow of transfers suggests practical thinking has taken priority—perhaps helped by a shared dislike of Tottenham.
From Billy Dickson in 1953 to Noni Madueke in 2025, Arsenal and Chelsea have done plenty of business over the years—and that trend isn’t slowing down.
Now it’s up to Madueke to prove he can succeed where others have failed. Whether he becomes the next Čech or joins the list of disappointments remains to be seen.
