Wrexham co-owner Rob McElhenney has confirmed that newly promoted League One side Wrexham is in negotiations to bring back Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on a permanent deal, according to talkSPORT.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper, who is set to become a free agent after being released by Arsenal at the end of the current season, is a target for Wrexham. Mikel Arteta decided not to offer Okonkwo a new contract following his season-long loan at Wrexham in League Two.
During his loan spell, Okonkwo made 40 appearances in all competitions and kept 16 clean sheets. His impressive performances, following the departure of Ben Foster, earned him the League Two Goalkeeper of the Season award.
What’s Been Said?
Speaking with talkSPORT, Rob McElhenney, star of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” confirmed that Wrexham is actively trying to bring Arthur Okonkwo back to the Racecourse Ground.
“There’s a very good chance. We’re talking to Arthur actively right now; we know he wants to come back to Wrexham and we definitely want him. It’s just about working out the right deal that works for everybody.”
Could the Goalkeeper Return?
It is likely that Arthur Okonkwo could return to Wrexham. The club has a strong track record of securing their transfer targets, with a few notable exceptions. Given Okonkwo’s successful stint at Wrexham, where he performed admirably, he may feel confident in his ability to excel with the club in a higher division. If Wrexham hadn’t secured promotion, they might have struggled to re-sign him, as he could have sought opportunities to play at a higher level. However, both Wrexham and Okonkwo appear poised to take the next step in League One.
There are probably other offers on the table from clubs looking to sign him, which could drive up the value of his contract and potentially complicate negotiations. Nevertheless, it’s unlikely that Championship sides would guarantee him first-team football, making Wrexham a logical and attractive option for him.