Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds can set the tone for Wrexham’s transfer business this summer by signing one key player.
Wrexham secured promotion to League One last weekend and once the dust settles on their celebrations, work will begin towards building a team capable of competing in the third tier.
The foundations of Phil Parkinson‘s squad are already in place with several players, including Elliot Lee, Paul Mullin and Max Cleworth ready to tackle the challenge head-on.
A strong spine will be imperative for the Reds but as it stands, a huge chunk of that will be ripped out when Arthur Okonkwo returns to Arsenal in June.
The 22-year-old has been a revelation on loan from the Gunners and boasts the best save percentage in England’s top four divisions, placing him above Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.
Okonkwo’s contract expires at the Emirates this year and he is set to leave on a free transfer.
A raft of interest from sides higher up the pyramid is expected and wages could be a huge problem for Wrexham to overcome.
Wrexham can ‘set the tone’ by signing Arthur Okonkwo
Okonkwo has developed into a fine young goalkeeper at the Racecourse Ground and has enjoyed his time at the club.
Having made an incredible impression in League Two, the youngster was named in the Team of the Season after keeping 13 clean sheets and impressed with his cat-like reflexes.
While Wrexham could find it difficult to sign him permanently this summer, Nathan Salt believes the Reds can ‘set the tone’ for the rest of their transfer business by beating their rivals to his signature.
Speaking on the Rob Ryan Red podcast, Salt said: “Buying Okonkwo I think would set the tone for the entire window because I think if you get him, that completely changes the wage structure and if you don’t get him, we’re back to where we were heading into a season in League Two. You need a young goalkeeper you can build with, where is he? Who is that person?”
Wrexham hold the advantage in Arthur Okonkwo deal
Okonkwo was almost certainly never coming back if Wrexham remained in League Two, but the fact they earned promotion gives them every chance of sealing a permanent deal.
Of course, batting off interest from elsewhere will be difficult, especially if Championship clubs recognise his talent, but he’s found a home in Wales and surely that will work in the club’s favour.
The young shot-stopper has built up a telepathic understanding with his back three and unlike if they signed a different keeper, Okonkwo wouldn’t need to adjust.
That should give Wrexham the advantage in the race to sign him, and as long as Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds are willing to match his wage demands, they can set the tone by making him their first signing.
Not only would they have a keeper on their books with immense potential, but he also boasts huge resale value and the club is lacking in that area currently.