Arsenal handed fresh Noni Madueke transfer demand ahead as Chelsea deal edges closer
by Keifer MacDonald, Dan Marsh · football.londonSol Campbell believes Arsenal should clarify their decision to sign Noni Madueke to supporters, despite his belief that the Chelsea winger will be a top-notch addition to Mikel Arteta's squad.
The Gunners are on course to make Madueke, 23, their fourth summer signing after agreeing a deal worth £52million with their Premier League rivals. The winger has already agreed personal terms on a five-year contract after emerging as a priority target.
But whilst Madueke will bolster Arsenal's attack, not everyone is entirely convinced by the signing.
It was revealed on Thursday that a small group of fans had started a petition against the deal being finalised. And Campbell has emphasised that Arsenal should explain how Madueke will fit into their system once a deal is completed.
"I've seen him play, and he's a very dynamic, keep-going kind of player that can cause problems when he gets into the final third," Campbell told The Metro, reports the Mirror.
"I think most people are probably thinking, 'Do we need him?'. He's a quality player, but I think the club needs to explain why they're getting certain players in and how it's going to fit into our system.
"It's important to explain that to the players and the fans."
Arsenal's ambition to bolster their attack by signing a No. 9 and a new left winger has ignited speculation over the future of Gabriel Martinelli.
Former Gunner Campbell has thrown his support behind Gabriel Martinelli, predicting the Brazilian will excel even as Madueke's imminent arrival ramps up competition for places.
"Martinelli has been great. He's been amazing," Campbell remarked on the forward's impressive tally of eight goals and four assists in the Premier League last term.
"He picked up at the back end of the last season. But you have to change it up. I think Arteta wants to put players quietly under pressure to see how they react.
"How will you respond to competition? If you're a top player, you respond with concentration and quality. You put pressure on certain positions and certain players to get focus. That's the focus you need to win something."