English Premier League outfit, Arsenal are reportedly set to part ways with Arthur Okonkwo, a prospect for the Super Eagles, during the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to reports in the English media, Okonkwo is expected to leave north London as his contract with the club expires at the end of June 2024.
Having been part of Arsenal's Hale End Academy for fourteen years since joining as an eight-year-old on schoolboy terms, the talented goalkeeper is poised to leave the Emirates Stadium permanently without having made a senior appearance for the club.
Despite being called up for ten first-team games, including seven in the Premier League, Okonkwo's departure marks the end of his long association with Arsenal.
Following his inability to secure a spot in the first team, Okonkwo was loaned to Crewe Alexandra for the first part of the last season.
He then wrapped up the campaign at Austrian side Sturm Graz, where he clinched the first trophy of his senior career.
Where could Okonkwo's next destination be?
Earlier this month, there were reports that Wrexam were keen on signing the 22-year-old. Okonkwo spent last season on loan at Wrexham and was first-choice keeper as they secured promotion to League One.
“Obviously we’re keen to keep Arthur and we’re working on that,” Phil Parkinson told BBC Sport Wales.
“It could take time but there’s one thing for sure, we’ll give it everything that we’ve got to keep Arthur at the club,” Wrexham's manager added.
Okonkwo made 40 appearances for Wrexham in all competitions during a season in which they secured a second successive promotion.
Wrexham are now in the process of identifying players to strengthen their squad as they prepare for a return to the third tier, where they club last played in 2005.
In the 2023-2024 season, Okonkwo's reputation soared as he played a vital role in Wrexham's promotion to League One.
His outstanding performance earned him recognition as the best goalkeeper in the fourth tier, having achieved fourteen clean sheets in 36 appearances, all of which he started.
Could Arsenal exit make Arthur Okonkwo switch allegiance to Nigeria?
With Arsenal's reported departure looming for Arthur Okonkwo, speculation arises about a potential shift in his international allegiance to Nigeria.
The promising goalkeeper, who has been part of Arsenal's setup for fourteen years, faces an uncertain future as his contract with the club is set to expire at the end of June 2024.
Okonkwo's potential exit from Arsenal could prompt him to reassess his international options. Born in England but of Nigerian descent, Okonkwo has represented England at youth level, featuring prominently for the under-16 and under-17 teams.
He made his debut for the under-18s just two days before his birthday, further solidifying his presence in England's youth setup.
However, with his pathway to first-team football at Arsenal becoming increasingly limited, Okonkwo may consider pledging his allegiance to Nigeria in pursuit of greater playing opportunities on the international stage.
Nigeria's national team, the Super Eagles, have shown interest in Okonkwo's services, and his departure from Arsenal could provide the impetus for him to switch allegiances.
With Nigeria boasting a rich footballing heritage and a strong desire to bolster their goalkeeping options, Okonkwo could be enticed by the prospect of representing his ancestral homeland.
The decision rests with Okonkwo, who must weigh his options carefully as he navigates the next chapter of his career.
Whether he chooses to switch allegiance to Nigeria remains to be seen, but his potential exit from Arsenal could indeed influence his international future.
Will Okonkwo switch his allegiance and compete for the Super Eagles' number one position with Stanley Nwabali?
