Arsenal have made background checks on Noni Madueke with Chelsea braced for a direct approach for the winger from their London rivals.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said Noni Madueke remains available to play at the Club World Cup despite the club holding talks over a potential move to London rivals Arsenal.

Noni Madueke transfer news as Chelsea commitments at the Club World Cup could delay a possible summer move to Arsenal

João Pedro had just scored on a 20-yard curling shot in his first start for Chelsea, putting his team ahead in a Club World Cup semifinal less than a week after signing with the London power. He took two steps to start to celebrate and then he stopped.

Nick: Chelsea were in control throughout and never seriously under threat. While Pedro rightly takes the headlines, there were good performances all round, including from Malo Gusto, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Neto. Looking forward to the final, where Chelsea have every chance.

Chelsea fans are breathing a sigh of relief after João Pedro's game against Fluminense in the Club World Cup semifinals. Pedro, who signed for the club just days ago, got his first Chelsea start in place of the suspended Liam Delap,