Arthur Okonkwo signs new contract

Arsenal’s academy goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has signed a new contract, and has officially become a member of the first team. Okonkwo, 19, was out of contract, having joined the club at the U-9 level. Okonkwo featured regularly in first-team training last season, and was on the bench in the latter stage of the Europa League, after Alex Runarsson was un-registered.

Okonkwo was the regular goalkeeper for the U-23s last season, and is regarded highly by the club. He will become Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper with his promotion to the first team, and with Runarsson on the way out, and Bernd Leno on holiday following his participation as Manuel Neuer’s backup at Euro 2020, Okonkwo should feature in pre-season.

Mikel Arteta said: “Arthur was working and travelling a lot with the first team last season and we have all seen his quality at first hand. He is a strong young goalkeeper with great potential and we’re so pleased he has signed a new deal. He has absolutely earned his place in the first-team squad.”

Okonkwo will wear #33—last worn by Mat Ryan, and before that, worn by Petr Cech.