Arthur Okonkwo signs for Wrexham in permanent deal after saying goodbye to Arsenal

Huge football news this afternoon as Wrexham have confirmed the permanent signing of top keeper Arthur Okonkwo, who this afternoon said his goodbyes to Arsenal.

Okonkwo, 22, first signed for Wrexham on loan from Arsenal on Transfer Deadline Day in September last year.

He made 40 appearances in all competitions last season, keeping 16 clean sheets as the Red Dragons finished second in Sky Bet League Two to secure promotion to League One.

The goalkeeper has now committed his future to Wrexham, and will join on July 1 following his departure from Arsenal.

On signing, he said: “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. It’s good to finally be here.

“This is home, it’s felt like that since last season when I came in. The co-chairmen are so good, the manager, the coaches, the players, and obviously the backroom staff that you don’t see. It’s so good to be here.”

Okonkwo, who also had loan spells with Crewe Alex and Sturm Graz during his time with Arsenal, made his Wrexham debut against Newcastle Under-21s in the EFL Trophy.

He then made his league debut against his former team, Crewe, cementing his place in the starting line-up. He caught the eye with his performances his goal, which resulted in him being named in the Sky Bet League Two Team of the Season.

On his signing, manager Phil Parkinson said: “We’re delighted with the signing. It’s such an important one for us.

“Arthur was outstanding for us last year, and since the season finished we’ve worked really hard to secure the signing.

“It’s great credit to all the work that has gone on behind the scenes, because it’s never straightforward but we’ve always said it’s important to have perseverance to try and get your number one target – and Arthur certainly was that.

“It’s a great first signing of the summer for us.”

This signing is being announced via livestream of the club’s new Wrexham Contract Printer – HP Smart Tank. As Wrexham’s global technology partner, HP supports club operations – including the exclusive printing of new signing contracts.