Arsenal will reportedly promote Arthur Okonkwo to replace Alex Runarsson as the club’s second-choice goalkeeper.
According to the Express, the Icelandic international is in talks to join Turkish Super Lig side Altay this summer. And 19-year-old academy prospect Okonkwo is a candidate to replace Runarsson in the first-team squad.
Okonkwo could be an option for Arsenal
The youngster is yet to play a first-team minute for Arsenal. However, the 6’4” shot-stopper is highly regarded at London Colney.
As per Football London journalist Chris Wheatley: ‘(Mikel) Arteta is a huge admirer of Okonkwo’.
Arsenal look set for plenty of change in the goalkeeping area of the squad. The future of Bernd Leno is currently up in the air, with the German international potentially departing this summer.
The north London side are also keen on numerous keepers.
Mundo Deportivo claims that Arsenal are eager on FC Barcelona star Neto, Moreover, Goal report that Ajax number one Andre Onana remains an option for the Gunners.
Arsenal have also been linked with keepers who have recently competed in the Premier League. As reported by the Daily Star, the Gunners are keen on West Brom star Sam Johnstone and Sheffield United ace Aaron Ramsdale.
Insider View:
Indeed, after just one season with Arsenal, Runarsson’s time with the club is seemingly at an end.
The Icelandic international was a poor signing for the Gunners. With Runarsson’s League Cup performance against Manchester City a particular low point for the keeper.
Moreover, news that Okonkwo could be the man to replace the 26-year-old is encouraging news for supporters.
Indeed, the teenager is a highly-rated youngster inside Arsenal. And although he might not be quite ready for first-team football, appearances in the early stages of the League Cup could be an excellent opening step into the senior game for the keeper.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
