Former Newcastle United goalkeeper, Shay Given, has expressed shock over Chelsea’s decision to sell Noni Madueke to Premier League rivals Arsenal.

Madueke, who joined Chelsea from PSV in 2023, scored 20 goals in 92 appearances for the Blues. He also played a key role in helping the club qualify for the UEFA Champions League and lifting the UEFA Conference League last season.

Despite his progress, Chelsea opted to let the winger go during the summer transfer window and instead signed Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United for £40m.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, Given questioned Chelsea’s decision:

“I’m actually surprised that Chelsea let Noni Madueke go because it looks like they have replaced him with Alejandro Garnacho, and at the minute you would say Madueke is miles ahead of him. I think Madueke is just going to get better and better as well. He’s still young and will surely improve under Mikel Arteta. He looks to be enjoying his role at Arsenal.”

Madueke has already settled well at Arsenal, and many fans believe the move could prove costly for Chelsea in the long run.