Football News: Wrexham Sign Arsenal Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on Permanent Deal
In a significant move for the Football League, Wrexham have announced the permanent signing of 22-year-old goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo from Arsenal. The Welsh club, co-owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have secured Okonkwo’s services until 2027.
Okonkwo initially joined Wrexham on loan from Arsenal last summer for their League Two campaign. During the 2022/23 season, the young goalkeeper made 40 appearances for the club, with 36 of those coming in the league, playing a crucial role in Wrexham’s back-to-back promotions.
Wrexham co-owner Rob McElhenney expressed his delight at the permanent signing, taking to social media with a humorous post to announce the deal. Posting an image of the cartoon character Arthur, McElhenney captioned it, “Oh hello :)”.
“I’m feeling very good, I’m so happy to have finally signed and I can’t wait to get back to it. It was amazing last season. We had so many good memories together with the fans, and knowing they wanted me back was a big reason that I’m back.”
- Arthur Okonkwo
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson also shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Arthur was outstanding for us last year, and since the season finished we’ve worked really hard to secure the signing. It’s a great first signing of the summer for us.”
After 15 years in the Arsenal academy, Okonkwo has now embarked on a new chapter, leaving the Premier League giants to join Wrexham in their bid to establish themselves in the EFL Championship.
The signing of Okonkwo is a significant coup for Wrexham as they continue to build a squad capable of challenging at the top of the EFL. With the goalkeeper’s impressive performances last season, the club will be hoping for more success in the upcoming 2023/24 campaign.
🔗 Source