Chelsea target Noni Madueke has explained why he rejected the chance to sign for Manchester United. The 20-year-old winger has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this month as Graham Potter looks to bolster his frontline.
football.london understands that the Blues are in advanced talks with the Dutch giants in a deal worth around £35million. Initially, PSV were adamant that they would sell their talisman after having already sold Cody Gakpo to Liverpool a couple weeks prior.
But, after talks intensified on Thursday afternoon, a deal is close to being struck. However, Chelsea are not the only Premier League side to have come within touching distance of securing Madueke's signature after the Red Devils failed to do so.
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In 2018 the England youth international decided to leave Tottenham in search of first-team opportunities and, instead of penning a deal at Old Trafford, he joined PSV. Speaking to BBC Sport in 2021, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News, Madueke explained his motive for seeking a move overseas.
"Chelsea, Manchester United, a lot of European clubs [made offers]," Madueke said. "I came here one time and as soon as I came I wanted to sign straight away.
"I knew going from Tottenham to United is pretty much the same thing. The reason I wanted to go was to progress quicker into the first team. PSV is a top European club. It made so much sense at the time and it makes sense now."
Madueke continued by admitting Cristiano Ronaldo is an inspiration of his. He added: "The person that made me want to play football was Cristiano Ronaldo when he was playing for Manchester United. He was my idol. I grew up watching him."
Speaking to Sky Sports as recently as April, Madueke admitted that he was eyeing a return to England. He said: "I definitely want to play there next.
"Whether it is this summer or whenever it is, for now, I am focusing on the rest of the season. It is definitely an ambition of mine to play there. I have had a kickstart in my career by playing a lot of games at a young age. I feel like I will be ready for any step I take."
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