Football is littered with examples of baffling transfer deals. Arsenal’s move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke is the latest example.
The Gunners have been searching for a back-up for Bukayo Saka. They have decided that spending £48 million plus add-ons to sign Madueke is the answer to the conundrum.
While the 23-year-old has shown plenty of promise with Chelsea, his lack of consistency and goals is a major cause for concern.
Madueke could be an option for Arsenal on the left flank, yet his record there suggests that it would be an extremely risky move.
In seven starts for Chelsea on the left last season, Madueke failed to register a goal or an assist. He generally looked uncomfortable on that side of the pitch.
Given that Saka is the first choice on the opposite flank, it is difficult to envision where Madueke fits into the equation.
Chelsea dumped Raheem Sterling on Arsenal last season, and the loan move did not work out.
They’ve now extracted a whopping fee for a player who has plenty to prove. Their accountants will be roaring with laughter.
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