Wrexham have now learned where Arthur Okonkwo’s future will lie after Arsenal’s latest stance on the player emerges.
Wrexham signed goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on loan from Arsenal last summer after he enjoyed productive spells at Crewe Alexandra in League Two and Sturm Graz in Austria.
With the pulling power of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, the Reds were able to attract the 22-year-old to the Racecourse Ground and it has proven to be an inspired signing.
Supporters are told to never fall in love with a loan player, but it’s been impossible for the Wrexham faithful not to adore Okonkwo, who has been excellent since arriving at the club.
Okonkwo’s exceptional reflex saves have helped keep his side in the hunt for promotion to League One and Phil Parkinson believes the former England under-18 international has “great potential”.
After keeping 11 clean sheets in 28 matches this term, many believe his potential as a goalkeeper could see him play higher up the pyramid, although that doesn’t look like it’s going to be with Arsenal.
Arthur Okonkwo will leave Arsenal in the summer
Okonkwo’s contract at the Emirates Stadium expires in the summer and according to Football London, the Englishman won’t be putting pen to paper on fresh terms.
The young goalkeeper will be allowed to leave for free once his contract expires as Mikel Arteta is well-stocked in the goalkeeping department.
With Aaron Ramsdale, David Raya and Karl Hein as current first-team goalkeepers, it would have been an impossible task for Okonkwo to break through.
And, at the age of 22, he needs to be playing regular football and not be sat on the bench every week.
Luckily, following three successful loan spells away from the Emirates, Okonkwo won’t be short of options this summer and Wrexham should pounce to sign him on a free.
Wrexham’s promotion holds key to Okonkwo’s future
Okonkwo looks destined to play at a higher level and is far too good for League Two.
Plenty of clubs, particularly in the Championship or League One, may have looked at his performances for Wrexham and taken a keen interest.
Time will tell as to whether interest from higher up the pyramid will materialise, but if Wrexham do win promotion, there’s every chance they could sign him on a free transfer.
The youngster has settled brilliantly in Wales and has looked right at home between the sticks.
Okonkwo is also adored by the supporters and that could give Wrexham the advantage when negotiating a deal, but only if promotion is sealed.
Although not improbable given the project McElhenney and Reynolds are building in Wales, though, signing Okonkwo permanently could be more difficult if they’re still in League Two.