Nigeria keeper signs professional contract with Arsenal

Arsenal on Friday handed a professional deal to Nigeria goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo following his exploits with its junior teams.

The youngster who has represented England at the U-17 level was rewarded for his performance with the U-18 side last season.

Okonkwo who was born in Nigeria before leaving to England is a product of the Arsenal’s Hale End academy,  and due to his performance, was first named on the bench for the U-18s while still an U-15 player.

“Congratulations to Arthur  🔴 “We are delighted that he has signed his first professional
contract with us and we look forward to supporting him further through his development,”Arsenal FC
(@Arsenal) tweeted.

Speaking to Arsenal’s site, Arsenal academy manger, Per  Mertesacker said: “ Arthur is a talented
player, who has excelled through our Hale End Academy. “We are delighted that he has signed his first professional contract with us and we look forward to supporting him further through his development.”

Before penning the deal, Okonkwo had refused to sign a scholarship deal with the club.