Report: Newcastle approach Chelsea over transfer of star with “fantastic one-on-one ability”

Newcastle United have made their first significant move in what promises to be a transformative summer, approaching Chelsea with a formal enquiry about winger Noni Madueke.

The Magpies’ interest in the 23-year-old English international signals their ambition to add quality depth ahead of their Champions League campaign, though early indications suggest they face an uphill battle to secure his signature.

Madueke’s situation at Stamford Bridge presents an intriguing dilemma for both clubs involved. While the former PSV Eindhoven star has shown flashes of brilliance since his £29 million move in January 2023, his inconsistent performances have left him vulnerable to being squeezed out by Chelsea’s relentless recruitment drive.

The impending arrival of Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, coupled with expected new attacking signings to replace Jadon Sancho and João Félix, threatens to push Madueke further down the pecking order.

Newcastle’s approach demonstrates shrewd market awareness from sporting director Dan Ashworth, identifying a talented player potentially surplus to requirements at a rival club.

Eddie Howe’s system demands wingers capable of both creating and finishing chances – attributes Madueke possesses in abundance when at his best.

His direct running style and ability to operate on either flank would provide valuable alternatives to Miguel Almirón and Anthony Gordon, offering different qualities to break down stubborn defenses in Europe.

However, the clubs currently find themselves far apart in valuation. Chelsea’s €60 million (£50 million) asking price reflects both their initial investment and the premium for homegrown talent, while Newcastle’s €40-42 million valuation aligns more closely with Madueke’s actual output – 7 goals and 4 assists in 40 appearances last season.

This €20 million gap represents the first major hurdle in negotiations, with Chelsea under no financial pressure to sell after securing European qualification themselves.

The presence of AC Milan as potential suitors complicates matters further. The Italian giants could offer Champions League football with less domestic competition for starting spots, though they may struggle to match Premier League spending power.

Madueke himself faces a career crossroads – stay and fight for his place at Chelsea amid intense competition, or embrace a fresh challenge where he could become a central figure in Newcastle’s exciting project.

For Newcastle, this pursuit represents more than just squad reinforcement. Securing a player of Madueke’s profile would send a statement about their ability to raid traditional ‘Big Six’ clubs for talent, continuing the trend set by signing Anthony Gordon from Everton.

His age (23) and room for development perfectly fit the club’s recruitment model of acquiring players approaching their prime years.

As negotiations develop, much will depend on Chelsea’s willingness to compromise and Madueke’s own ambitions.

With Newcastle prepared to make him a key part of their European campaign and Chelsea potentially open to reinvesting the fee in more established stars, this transfer saga could become one of the summer’s most intriguing subplots.

The Magpies’ opening move has been made – now we wait to see if Chelsea are truly prepared to deal with a rising Premier League force.

The coming weeks will reveal whether this enquiry develops into a serious bid, or if Newcastle will be forced to explore alternative targets.

One thing remains certain – after their Carabao Cup triumph and Champions League qualification, the Magpies are shopping in a different market this summer, and their interest in Madueke proves they’re not afraid to ruffle feathers in pursuit of progress.