Arsenal Shot-Stopper Arthur Okonkwo Completes Loan Move To Crewe Alexandra

Arthur Okonkwo has joined Crewe Alexandra on a season long loan move.

The 20-year-old goalkeeper will have his first experience of senior football with the League Two club.

Okonkwo made his first non-competitive appearance for Arsenal last season, and the Gunners will now hope he can gain some positive experience.

Official: Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has joined League Two side Crewe Alexandra on a season-long loan.

Best of luck, @arthurokonkwo_! #afc pic.twitter.com/xPatqLJMc3

— afcstuff (@afcstuff) July 29, 2022

Speaking on the signing, manager Alex Morris said:

“We are delighted to sign Arthur.

"Arsenal have been exceptional in facilitating the deal, we have got a great relationship with them.

“He was our number one target right from the start of the summer.

"He has great stature, he’s a good shot-stopper and has a good record of saving penalties.

"I believe Arsenal have aspirations of him playing in their first team in the future but for now he is here to help us.”

Okonkwo will wear the number 13 for Crewe.

The goalkeeper joined the first team squad last season, after signing a new long-term contract.

Arsenal clearly have high hopes for Okonkwo, and Mikel Arteta included him in multiple Premier League squads last season.

Arthur Okonkwo on Instagram, confirming he has signed a three-year extension with Arsenal: “Proud to have signed a new 3 year contract with the club I love. My home is Arsenal❤️ See you all soon😉” [_arthurokonkwo] #afc

❤️ @arthurokonkwo_ pic.twitter.com/C1r0QxZ70Y

— afcstuff (@afcstuff) July 9, 2021

The route to the number one shirt will undoubtedly be tough however.

Aaron Ramsdale is just 24, yet Arsenal's first team goalkeeper and a player who will inevitably improve.

Okonkwo will be hoping to compete with Ramsdale in the future.

Arsenal released an official statement on the move:

"The 20-year-old goalkeeper joined our academy aged eight and has continually impressed throughout the age groups.

"Having been promoted to the first-team at the beginning of last season, Arthur featured in our matchday squad seven times.

"We wish Arthur all the best for his loan spell at Crewe Alexandra and look forward to seeing his continued development."