Noni Madueke sends message to Chelsea fans as £52m Arsenal transfer confirmed

Noni Madueke has said goodbye to Chelsea after completing his £52million move to Arsenal - and THANKED Blues fans for criticism during his time at Stamford Bridge.

The England international joins the Gunners on a long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium after deciding to leave west London following two-and-a-half years with the Blues. During that time he played 92 games in all competitions, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists, having joined from PSV Eindhoven in a £30m move.

In an emotional statement on social media, Madueke said: "Dear Chelsea Football Club, I want to thank you for the last three [should be two] or so years. To every staff member that helped me along this journey, thank you.

"To my teammates, thank you for everything, I leave with only love and admiration. We achieved so much this season and I honestly wish you guys nothing but the best.

"To Enzo Maresca, it was a privilege to play under you, thank you for trying to better me as a player and as a person.

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"Lastly, thank you to every single Chelsea fan. Thank you for the love, the praise and also the criticism, I appreciate it all. I leave here with nothing but fond memories. Love NM11."

Madueke's move makes him the sixth player to leave the Blues for the Gunners during Mikel Arteta's reign. He follows Kepa Arrizabalaga in making the move this summer, with Willian, Jorginho, Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling - the latter on loan - having made the same move during the Spaniard's tenure, at a combined cost of £134m.

Madueke becomes Arsenal's fourth summer signing following Kepa, Spain international Martin Zubimendi and Brentford captain Christian Norgaard. Valencia defender Christhian Mosquera and Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres are expected to follow.

Arsenal boss Arteta said: "We're all so happy to welcome Noni Madueke to the team. Noni is an exciting and powerful young player, with his performances and numbers in recent seasons being of consistently high quality. He is one of the most talented wide forward players in the Premier League.

“At just 23, Noni already brings experience of club and international football, and he knows the Premier League very well. Having seen the quality of Noni’s performances up close in recent seasons, we’re really excited he is joining us.

“Noni joins our group with familiar England teammates and other players he knows. He will be made to feel at home straight away. His arrival will really improve our squad - we’re all thrilled to have him here. From all of us, welcome Noni and welcome to your family.”

In a statement, Chelsea said: "We would like to thank Noni for his efforts throughout his time at Chelsea and wish him well as he begins a new chapter in his career."

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