Wrexham 'targeting Arsenal goalkeeper' to replace Ben Foster

Wrexham are reportedly targeting an Arsenal goalkeeper to replace Ben Foster after the former England international's retirement from football.

Foster decided to hang up his boots earlier this month, after Wrexham's 5-5 draw with Swindon at the Racecourse Ground.

The 38-year-old had originally come out of retirement in March to join Phil Parkinson's side, and helped them earn promotion back to the Football League after 16 years away.

He then committed to a new contract with the club, but announced in a brutally honest statement that he felt he could no longer play at an acceptable standard after three games of the new campaign.

He stated: "The honest truth is that my performances this season haven't reached the level I demand of myself and I feel that now is the right time to retire.

"At the forefront of my mind when making this decision, was not only what was best for me but also the Club, and making the decision now gives the Club every opportunity to assess their options before the window closes."

Now, it appears Wrexham have located a replacement.

Wrexham 'targeting Arsenal goalkeeper as Ben Foster replacement'

According to AllNigeriaSoccer, Wrexham have offered a contract to Arsenal goalkeeper and England international Arthur Okonkwo.

The 21-year-old goalkeeper has never made a senior appearance for the Gunners, spending time on loan at Crewe and Austrian side Sturm Graz over the most recent campaign.

He helped the latter qualify for this season's Europa League, making 15 appearances in total after arriving in January, and lifted the Austrian Cup in April.

Okonkwo has also represented England at youth level, but remains eligible to play for Nigeria through his ancestry.

AllNigeriaSoccer tweeted: "Arthur Okonkwo to Wrexham is a possibility. At the moment, that's the only concrete offer the Arsenal goalkeeper has."

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After a summer of big spending in the National League last season, Wrexham have been slightly more reserved this term.

They signed Will Boyle and Liam Hall on free transfers, as well as completing the high-profile signing of James McClean from Wigan.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's side have also brought in Irish youth international goalkeeper Luke McNicholas on a short-term deal.

Given Okonkwo's pedigree in English football and abroad, though, it appears likely that the 21-year-old becomes the number one goalkeeper should he join Wrexham before the window slams shut.