Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney could now turn Wrexham AFC’s dream into a reality and seal a permanent transfer for Arsenal gem Arthur Okonkwo.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a sensational loan spell at the Red Dragons this term as a key player. Phil Parkinson has relished the potential Okonkwo offers in goal as Wrexham push for back-to-back promotions. He moved to the Red Dragons on loan from Arsenal in September.
Okonkwo initially had to accept a seat on the bench at the Racecourse Ground after leaving north London for north Wales. But he ousted Mark Howard to be the No1 and has started in all 28 of the Hale End product’s League Two outings since. He has also kept 11 clean sheets.
Wrexham plan transfer talks with Arsenal loanee Arthur Okonkwo
Now, the Mirror reports that Wrexham are planning to open talks with Okonkwo at the end of the season about a permanent transfer from Arsenal. The London-born shot-stopper will be a free agent in July when his contract ends. He has been at Arsenal since the age of eight.
Wrexham hope they can persuade Okonkwo to continue playing at the Racecourse Ground over pursuing a switch to a higher level. Their owners, Reynolds and McElhenney, also have the funds to make the Red Dragons’ dream a reality regardless of their promotion chances.
Arthur Okonkwo will not sign a new Arsenal contract past June 2024
Wrexham could also take confidence in the likelihood that Okonkwo leaves Arsenal in a free transfer this summer. According to football.london, the goalkeeper has already decided that he will not sign a new contract at Emirates Stadium and wants to leave the Gunners this July.
Okonkwo had enjoyed a stellar youth career in north London, before loan spells with Crewe Alexandra, SK Sturm Graz and now Wrexham. But he has never made a senior appearance in the capital. Okonkwo has only made 10 first-team squads since his first time in March 2021.
Now, Arsenal risk letting his potential walk out the door for free after Okonkwo’s great form for Wrexham. Parkinson praised the former England youth international as ‘exceptional’ this January. He is also in the race for the League Two Golden Glove award with his fine displays.