On 18/7, Arsenal signed Madueke to a 5-year contract. The reigning Premier League runners-up paid Chelsea 64 million USD in fixed transfer fees and an additional 5 million in add-ons.

The deal has sparked controversy, garnering nearly 5,000 signatures on a petition by Arsenal fans. Murals outside Emirates Stadium were defaced with "Arteta out," while the hashtag #NoToMadueke trended on X.

Madueke's Arsenal debut on 18/7. Photo: Arsenal FC

Madueke's Arsenal debut on 18/7. Photo: Arsenal FC

Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson expressed surprise at the deal, arguing that Madueke is not a prolific goal scorer and his performances are inconsistent. During two seasons with Chelsea, the English player scored 20 goals in 92 appearances across all competitions. "I don't understand this deal," Merson wrote. "That's a lot of money for someone who isn’t a prolific goal scorer. He's the type of player who plays well one game, then doesn't the next. His form is inconsistent."

Merson compared Madueke to Jadon Sancho, suggesting Sancho would have been a better option. He also questioned where Madueke fits into Arsenal's lineup, given that Bukayo Saka is a guaranteed starter on the right wing when fit. "What I don't understand is Madueke’s best position is playing on the right, cutting inside and shooting. Who’s doing that at Arsenal? Saka. And he’s not going to be leaving Arsenal’s starting eleven," Merson emphasized.

With a total fee of nearly 70 million USD, Merson believes it's an excessive amount for a backup player. He also mentioned Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman, two promising young Arsenal players, and questioned whether Arsenal still has faith in Nwaneri. Nwaneri, 18, had 6 goals and 3 assists in 37 appearances across all competitions last season, including 11 starts.

Bukayo Saka celebrates during Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Fulham at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 1/4. Photo: AP

Bukayo Saka celebrates during Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Fulham at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 1/4. Photo: AP

Merson further speculated about the true motive behind the transfer, suggesting Arsenal might be concerned about Saka's future or that of another player. "Is there a worry about Saka’s future? Are they doing this transfer to facilitate selling Saka or someone else?" the former England midfielder wondered.

Merson also suggested Eberechi Eze as a better fit for Arsenal. "Eze is the perfect fit. Arsenal struggle against defensive teams," Merson analyzed. "Teams look to restrict Arsenal’s space, and they’ve had trouble breaking that down. Eze has that special something and the ability to unlock those low blocks."

This summer, Arsenal has recruited four new players: Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard. The "Gunners" may also acquire striker Viktor Gyokeres before the transfer window closes.

On 23/7, the "Gunners" will play their first friendly match against AC Milan at the Singapore National Stadium.

Hong Duy (via Sky Sports)