His Arsenal future hangs in balance as clubs from England and Germany watch keenly, preparing for potential summer swoops.
- Sturm Graz’s standout goalkeeper, Arthur Okonkwo, attracts attention from various clubs in England and Germany.
- Okonkwo’s performances, including securing the Austrian Cup and challenging for the league title, have highlighted his potential.
- Arsenal may face a decision about Okonkwo’s future, given his contract situation and the goalkeeping pecking order at the club.
Arthur Okonkwo: a rising star generating global interest
The performances of British Nigerian goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on loan at Sturm Graz have caught the eye of clubs across Europe.
His successful spell in Austria has seen him lift the Austrian Cup, while also pushing Sturm Graz to the brink in the Austrian Bundesliga title race.
A goalkeeper in demand
After spending the latter part of the season on loan in Austria, Okonkwo has positioned himself in the spotlight.
His impressive performances, which saw him keep six clean sheets in 18 matches, have led to clubs from England and Germany expressing an interest.
His contract with Arsenal expires in June 2024, leaving a potential summer move on the cards.
The journey so far
Okonkwo’s season began in England with League Two side Crewe Alexandra, where he kept 10 clean sheets.
Recalled by Arsenal and loaned out to Austria, Okonkwo exceeded expectations.
His crowning moment came when he kept a clean sheet in the final of the OFB Cup, helping Sturm Graz to lift the trophy over Rapid Vienna.
The future of Okonkwo
With Aaron Ramsdale and Matt Turner ahead in the pecking order at Arsenal, Okonkwo’s future in London remains uncertain.
Despite his youth, the 21-year-old goalkeeper has proven his capabilities.
With his contract expiring in a year, clubs are expected to contact Arsenal in the coming weeks to strike a deal.
Despite the competition for places at Arsenal, Okonkwo’s talent and potential may see him make a summer move.
Sturm Graz’s search for Okonkwo’s successor
Sturm Graz are not wasting any time in searching for a potential replacement for Arthur Okonkwo.
According to reports from 90minuten, the Austrian Cup winners are leading the race to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s youth team goalkeeper, Matteo Bignetti.
Bignetti, whose contract runs out in June, is reportedly drawing interest from other clubs including Venezia, Genoa and Mainz 05.
With Austria international Jörg Siebenhandl also set to depart next month, Sturm Graz is poised to significantly reshape its goalkeeping department ahead of the next season.
