Arsenal have enjoyed an encouraging start to the season, but Mikel Arteta’s squad depth is already being tested as the Gunners look to compete across multiple competitions.
The north London club strengthened their attacking options during the summer, but one of their big-money additions has found it difficult to establish himself as a regular starter.
With the January transfer window approaching, Arsenal could now have a decision to make over the future of an England international who is attracting interest from two Champions League clubs.
Arsenal face Noni Madueke transfer dilemma
Noni Madueke has reportedly attracted interest from Atletico Madrid and Juventus after struggling to break into Arsenal’s starting XI this season.
According to the The Telegraph, the two European clubs are understood to be long-term admirers of the 24-year-old and could explore a move when the January window opens.
Madueke has yet to start a Premier League game this campaign, instead being restricted largely to appearances from the bench. His only starts have come in the Community Shield and Carabao Cup, raising questions over whether he can force his way back into Arteta’s plans.
That is a significant change from last season, when the former Chelsea winger made 16 Premier League starts despite missing around two months with a knee problem.
Arsenal spent an initial £48.5m to sign Madueke from Chelsea in the summer of 2025, with the deal potentially rising to around £52m through add-ons. He was brought in to provide another attacking option and offer competition to Bukayo Saka on the right.
However, the competition for places has increased further following the arrival of Christos Tzolis, while teenage sensation Max Dowman has also emerged as another option for Arteta.
Madueke remains highly regarded by England, with Thomas Tuchel’s staff reportedly viewing him as one of the country’s strongest one-on-one attackers. He also started England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway during the summer, making his current lack of opportunities at Arsenal particularly notable.
The interest from Juventus and Atletico could therefore give Arsenal a difficult decision to make.
A January loan is reportedly one possibility, allowing Madueke to regain regular football without Arsenal permanently losing a player they invested heavily in. Alternatively, Arteta could decide that his squad needs the depth, particularly with injuries potentially disrupting his attacking options.
For now, Arsenal are expected to assess the situation rather than actively push Madueke towards the exit. But if his lack of Premier League opportunities continues, the interest from two major European clubs could force the Gunners to consider their options.
