Arthur Okonkwo linked with Leicester City: What move could mean for Super Eagles spot

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Super Eagles goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has been linked with a potential move away from Wrexham in recent weeks, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Okonkwo joined the club two years ago and played a key role in their promotion campaign.

He remained a regular fixture in goal throughout the majority of last season, though he was benched for Danny Ward for the final few games.

Nigeria and Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo
Nigeria and Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. Copyright: IMAGO/ StevexFlynn

​This decision by manager Phil Parkinson placed the Nigerian in a difficult position, particularly with only one year remaining on his contract.

But a few weeks ago, reports emerged, indicating that contract negotiations between the player and the club had stalled.

Super Eagles hopeful Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham
Arthur Okonkwo. Copyright: xKarlxVallantinexIMAGO

As a result, both parties agreed to part ways should a suitable offer materialize. Since that agreement, Leicester City has emerged as a likely destination.

​As of Sunday, reports suggested that talks between Okonkwo and Leicester City is ongoing, with the club expected to formalize their interest soon.

The 24-year-old is valued at €5 million, it remains to be seen whether the Foxes will pursue a permanent transfer or submit a loan proposal due to their tight financial situation.

​What Arthur Okonkwo’s Move Portends For His Super Eagles Future

Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo
Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. Copyright: ImagoxManjitxNarotrax

​As talks regarding a move to Leicester City continue, questions have come up about whether Okonkwo’s move from Wrexham, and Championship side, to Leicester City, a League One club, is a step down for his career and how it might impact his status with the Super Eagles.

​Currently, Okonkwo appears to be the second-choice goalkeeper for the Super Eagles, sitting behind Maduka Okoye.

This ranking has been bolstered by Stanley Nwabali’s current status as a free agent. However, if Nwabali secures a new club and regains his form, he will undoubtedly challenge for a spot in the national team. That would definitely threaten Okonkwo’s position in the goalkeeper hierarchy.

Nigeria and Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo
Nigeria and Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. Copyright: xMIxNewsx IMAGO

​Despite these challenges, the situation may not be entirely bleak for Okonkwo. If he can secure consistent playing time and produce high-level performances, he will remain a difficult player to displace from the national team setup.

<!-- Author Start -->Kelvin Omachonu<!-- Author End -->

Kelvin Omachonu

Sports Writer

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Kelvin Omachonu is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with 6 years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. A bettor for 7 years, he specialises in football and basketball odds and responsible gambling, and has used operators including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Betano and 1xBet.