22-year-old Arsenal player’s 3-year contract with his new club confirmed

The 22-year-old played a key role in Wrexham’s promotion to League One, making 40 appearances in all competitions and keeping an impressive 16 clean sheets, 14 of which were 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: “I feel really good, I’m so happy to have finally signed and I can’t wait to be back. Last season was incredible. We have so many great memories with the fans and knowing that they wanted me back was a big reason why I came back.”

“It’s nice to finally be here. This is my home, it’s felt like this since last season when I started here. The co-chairmen are so good, the manager, the coaches, the players and of course the team behind the scenes that you don’t see. It’s so nice to be here.”

His consistent performances as a goalkeeper secured him a place in the League Two team of the season and cemented his reputation as a rising star in English football.

WREXHAM, WALES – MARCH 29: Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham watches 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 commented on the move: “We are delighted with the signing. It is a huge deal for us. Arthur was outstanding for us last year and we have worked really hard since the end of the season to secure the signing.”

Parkinson added: “It’s a huge compliment to all the work that’s been done behind the scenes because it’s never easy but we’ve always said it’s important to have perseverance to try and achieve your number one target – and Arthur certainly was that. For us he’s a great first signing of the summer.”

Okonkwo’s contract with Arsenal expires this summer, allowing him to join Wrexham on a free transfer. As he is under 24, Arsenal may be entitled to compensation. However, it is not clear whether he has been offered a new contract by the club. If so, Arsenal will receive some money.

Arthur Okonkwo signs a contract extension at Arsenal alongside Mikel Arteta and Edu (Photo via Arsenal.com)

Born in London in 2001, Okonkwo holds dual citizenship of England and Nigeria. He first joined the Arsenal academy as an U9 player and was promoted to the first team in 2021 with the shirt number 33.

Prior to his loan to Wrexham, Okonkwo enjoyed a successful time at Austrian club Sturm Graz, playing a crucial role in their Austrian Cup victory.

He made his Wrexham debut against Newcastle United U21s in the EFL Trophy before securing a place in the starting line-up for the rest of the season. His performances not only contributed to Wrexham’s promotion but also showed his ability to perform 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 support of the passionate Wrexham fans, Okonkwo is ready to continue his development and make a significant impact in League One.

He will officially join the team on July 1st, when his contract with Arsenal officially expires.