Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has officially made his return to Wrexham AFC permanent, signing a three-year contract after a successful loan spell last season.
The 22-year-old played an integral role in Wrexham’s promotion to League One, making 40 appearances in all competitions and keeping an impressive 16 clean sheets, 14 of which came in the league.
WREXHAM, WALES – MARCH 29: Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham during the Sky Bet League Two match between Wrexham and Mansfield Town at the Racecourse Ground on March 29, 2024 in Wrexham, Wales. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Okonkwo, who joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of eight, expressed his delight at the move, saying: “I’m feeling really good, I’m so happy to have finally signed and I can’t wait to get back into it to go. It was great last season. We had so many good memories together with the fans, and the fact that they wanted me back was a big reason why I’m back.
“It’s good to finally be here. This is my home, it’s felt that way since last season when I walked in. The co-chairmen are so good, the manager, the coaches, the players and of course the backroom staff that you don’t see. It’s so good to be here.”
His consistent goals earned him a place in the League Two Team of the Season, cementing his reputation as a rising star in English football.
WREXHAM, WALES – MARCH 29: Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham looks on in the rain during the Sky Bet League Two match between Wrexham and Mansfield Town at the Racecourse Ground on March 29, 2024 in Wrexham, Wales. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson said of the move: “We are very pleased with the signing. It’s so important to us. Arthur was excellent for us last year and we have worked very hard since the end of the season to secure the signing.”
Parkinson added: “It’s a great honor for all the work that goes on behind the scenes because it’s never easy, but we’ve always said it’s important to have perseverance to try and achieve your main goal – and Arthur certainly was. It is a great first signing of the summer for us.”
Okonkwo’s contract with Arsenal expires this summer, meaning he can join Wrexham on a free transfer, although Arsenal may be owed compensation as he is still under 24 years old. However, it is not clear whether the club has offered him a new contract. If so, Arsenal will get some money.
Arthur Okonkwo signs a contract extension with Arsenal alongside Mikel Arteta and Edu (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Born in London in 2001, Okonkwo has dual citizenship of England and Nigeria. He initially joined the Arsenal academy as an under-nine player and was promoted to the first team in 2021, wearing the number 33 shirt.
Before his loan spell at Wrexham, Okonkwo enjoyed a successful spell with Austrian side Sturm Graz, where he played a crucial role in their Austrian Cup triumph.
He made his Wrexham debut against Newcastle United U21s in the EFL Trophy before cementing his place in the starting line-up for the remainder of the season. His performances not only helped Wrexham’s promotion but also showed his ability to thrive under pressure.
The permanent move to Wrexham marks a new chapter in Okonkwo’s career. With the backing of the club’s ambitious owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, and the backing of the passionate Wrexham faithful, Okonkwo is ready to continue his development and make a significant impact in League One.
He will officially join the squad on July 1, when his contract with Arsenal formally expires.
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