Chelsea respond to Newcastle links as Enzo Maresca discusses Noni Madueke’s future

Over the past few weeks, Chelsea winger Noni Madueke has been regularly linked with a potential move to Newcastle United – something Blues boss Enzo Maresca was asked about last night.

After the 22-year-old scored in Chelsea’s Europa Conference League qualifier against Servette – which they won 2-0 – the Italian indicated that he would like to keep the winger at Stamford Bridge, but admitted “anything can happen” before the window closes next Friday.

Asked if he wants to keep Madueke at the club following links with a potential move away, Maresca said: “Yes, absolutely. The reality is, until the window is closed, anything can happen. We have so many games. Noni is doing well, the only thing he has to improve is his consistency all week in every training session.”

As we reported two weeks ago, Newcastle have shown interest in a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy the former PSV talent next summer, much like last year’s agreement with Lewis Hall, but it’s not clear if Chelsea would entertain such a deal; which would appeal to us given the bulk of our remaining budget could be spent on Marc Guehi.

Others have also confirmed our interest in the attacker, with Mark Douglas at the i revealing that Eddie Howe is a ‘huge fan’ and keen to do a deal if a buyer can be found for Miguel Almiron.

Madueke’s future appears to be uncertain, with a £60m move for Pedro Neto likely to reduce his minutes if the former Wolves man becomes a regular in Maresca’s side, not to mention the fact they also have the likes of Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, Joao Felix and Mykhalo Mudryk to pick from in attack.

I imagine a lot could depend on Chelsea’s need to sell, the minutes Maresca can promise Madueke (or not) and the money available at Newcastle to do a deal.

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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