Chelsea are plotting a surprise swoop for Arsenal starlet Ethan Nwaneri, amid reports that Noni Madueke has agreed personal terms to join the Gunners.

According to the Daily Mail, the Blues are closely monitoring Nwaneri’s contract situation, with the 18-year-old yet to commit to a new deal at the Emirates. His current contract runs until next summer, and while Arsenal are reportedly keen to tie him down to a new five-year deal, no agreement has been reached.

Fabrizio Romano claims Chelsea could pounce if negotiations between Arsenal and Nwaneri stall, especially given their admiration for the teenager’s performances last season. Nwaneri enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2024/25, scoring nine goals and making appearances in the Champions League.

However, any move could become significantly more expensive if Arsenal manage to extend his contract before Chelsea make their move.

The news of Chelsea’s interest in Nwaneri comes just as The Athletic revealed that Madueke has agreed personal terms with Arsenal. The 23-year-old, who played 45 times for Chelsea last season and featured in their Club World Cup campaign, is reportedly open to joining Mikel Arteta’s side. However, Chelsea and Arsenal are yet to begin formal negotiations.

Arsenal remain eager to strengthen their attacking options this summer, and Madueke’s versatility – able to operate on either flank – is seen as a valuable asset.

While Arsenal fans will be excited about the potential arrival of Madueke, the prospect of losing Nwaneri could temper their enthusiasm. The teenage winger, who made history as the youngest-ever Premier League player in 2022 at just 15 years and 181 days, is considered one of the club’s brightest prospects. Yet with Bukayo Saka firmly established on the right wing, Nwaneri’s path to regular first-team football at Arsenal remains uncertain.

The two clubs have already done business this summer, with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga completing a £5million switch to north London earlier this week – a sign that negotiations over Madueke and possibly Nwaneri could progress smoothly.

Chelsea’s interest in Nwaneri underlines the club’s continued focus on signing young, high-potential talents – and another summer tussle between the London giants could soon unfold.