Arsenal’s Nigeria-eligible star Arthur Okonkwo joins Stum Graz

Arthur Okonkwo has hopes of becoming Arsenal's number one gaolkeeper

TRANSFERS Arsenal’s Nigeria-eligible star Arthur Okonkwo joins Stum Graz

Joba Ogunwale 18:34 - 15.01.2023

The highly-rated  21-year-old has joined the Austrian top-flight club from the Gunners on a loan deal.

Arsenal’s rising star Arthur Okonkwo has joined Austrian Bundesliga side Stum Graz on a six-month loan deal. Pulse Sports had initially reported about Stum Graz’s interest in signing Okonkwo on loan. 

The Blackies have now gotten their man after he completed his medical today. The young goalkeeper will spend the next six months in the Austrian top flight with his new club.

Can Okonkwo fire Graz to the title?

Okonkwo will aim to help Graz challenge RB Salzburg for an unlikely Austrian Bundesliga title. Graz are currently second on the table, six points behind Salzburg, but Okonkwo’s arrival could boost their title challenge. 

Crewe Alexandra v Newport County EFL Sky Bet League 2 03/12/2022. Crewe Alexandra goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo (13) in the pre match warm up during the EFL Sky Bet League 2 match
Arthur Okonkwo has left Crewe Alexandra to join Stum Graz

The youngster is highly-rated by Arsenal, who see him as the future number one at the club. Okonkwo spent the first half of the season at League two side Crew Alexandra, keeping nine clean sheets in 23 games. 

Okonkwo is Arsenal's future

However, Arsenal decided to cut short his loan spell as they want Okonkwo to gain first-team experience in Austria. The 21-year-old’s progress has been rapid, having come through the ranks at Arsenal. 

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Okonkwo started with Arsenal’s U-18 team before moving to the U-23 side. Although he is yet to make his Arsenal debut, Okonkwo was on the bench in a few of Arsenal’s games last season. 

The youngster has also featured in England’s youth teams from the U15 to U18 levels. However, Okonkwo is also eligible to play for Nigeria through his parents. 

The ex-Crew Alexandra goalkeeper has not made a decision on his international future, but he is one player the Super Eagles could use due to their problems in goal. 

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