"Arsenal fans deserve better," reads the '#NOTOMADUEKE' petition on Change.org. "We are so close to real success and instead of building on what we have, it seems we're taking two steps back like the previous three transfer windows. We can certainly do better than this. Show some ambition and repay the fans for how we've supported the club for the past two decades."

Noni Madueke (white jersey) dribbles during Chelsea's 2-1 win against Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals at Lincoln Financial Field, Pennsylvania, USA, 4/7/2025. Photo: AP

Noni Madueke (white jersey) dribbles during Chelsea's 2-1 win against Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals at Lincoln Financial Field, Pennsylvania, USA, 4/7/2025. Photo: AP

"The club needs to upgrade the squad with world-class players, not spend significant money on a player clearly not at the level the fans expect. This decision should raise serious questions about the direction and ambition of the club," one commenter wrote on the petition.

Another added, "Over 20 years of unwavering support and this is how we are repaid? Mediocre signings with no ambition while our rivals strengthen? Arsenal is on the verge of true greatness, don't ruin it with ignorant transfers."

The backlash erupted after reports emerged that Arsenal had opened talks with Chelsea about signing Madueke. The Gunners have reportedly agreed personal terms with the English winger and now need to agree a fee with Chelsea. Arsenal submitted an initial offer totaling 65 million USD, but Chelsea are holding out for more.

Madueke previously played for PSV Eindhoven before joining Chelsea for 35 million USD in the summer of 2023. He has scored 20 goals in 92 appearances across all competitions. Arsenal reportedly value Madueke’s versatility to play on both wings and view him as a backup option for Bukayo Saka.

If the transfer goes through, Madueke would become the seventh Chelsea player to join Arsenal in the past seven seasons. "Arsenal fans do not want the club clearing out Chelsea’s 'deadwood' and funding their upgrades," another commenter noted.

Meanwhile, most Arsenal fans are excited about the prospect of signing Viktor Gyokeres. The Emirates club has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Swedish striker but still needs to negotiate a transfer fee with Sporting.

Christian Norgaard makes his Arsenal debut on 10/7. Photo: Arsenal FC

Christian Norgaard makes his Arsenal debut on 10/7. Photo: Arsenal FC

On 10/7, Arsenal completed the signing of Christian Norgaard from Brentford for 15 million USD. The Danish midfielder signed a two-year contract and will wear the number 16 shirt at his new club. Norgaard has played for Brentford for the past six years and is considered instrumental in helping the club gain promotion in 2021 and maintain their position in the top flight.

Norgaard is Arsenal's third signing this summer, following goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Hong Duy (Daily Mail)