22 March 2024 , 13:19
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Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo could sign for Wrexham on a permanent basis due to the funds available to Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
The 22-year-old is currently on loan with the League Two side and has been in fantastic form for the promotion chasers all season, conceding just 25 goals in 28 league games. Okonkwo is out of contract in the summer, meaning that Wrexham could offer him a lucrative deal and ensure he doesn't sign for a rival elsewhere.
As a current Premier League goalkeeper, Okonkwo will not want to commit his future to a team below his desired level, but Wrexham have lofty ambitions of reaching the top flight themselves. At this stage of his career, Okonkwo needs playing time, something he won't get back at Arsenal behind David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale.
Due to his successful season as Wrexham's No. 1, former League Two manager and England international Carlton Palmer expects Okonkwo to be in high demand, with teams from the Championship and League One also keeping tabs on him. But Palmer is convinced that Wrexham has the financial power to keep him in North Wales, and become a crucial part of their story.
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"He’s had a fantastic season and he’s still only 22. He’s kept 11 clean sheets in 28 matches this term, and he has been exceptional," Palmer told Football League World. "Wrexham is an exciting project, they’re on the up and Okonkwo is getting regular game time.
"He’s been very good, very consistent and looks to have a bright future ahead of him. With the owners of Wrexham having deep pockets and plenty of ambition, I think they have every chance to sign him permanently.
"Of course, there will be other EFL clubs interested in him, but if you’re a player at Wrexham it must be an exciting time as they see how far they can go. They’re on the cusp of getting back-to-back promotions which would be incredible and for a young keeper this is perfect for him.
Okonkwo has played in 28 League Two games this season for Wrexham "I’m sure Wrexham can entice the keeper to sign a contract with them and to continue on that journey." Okonkwo has had big shoes to fill after Ben Foster announced his decision to retire at the start of the season.
The former Manchester United goalkeeper came out of retirement last year to help Wrexham gain promotion to League Two, and initially committed to playing for the Red Dragons this season. However, after starting their first few games of the campaign he reversed his decision, stating that he was no longer at the required level aged 40.
Wrexham could complete back-to-back promotions this season, as they currently sit third in League Two and occupy the final automatic promotion spot. Crewe Alexandra and MK Dons are on their tail, but with just eight games remaining it's in Wrexham's hands.