As the season closes, attention is on Arthur Okonkwo, the young goalkeeper who is back at Arsenal after an impressive loan spell at Austrian Bundesliga side, Sturm Graz.

With his future uncertain, Okonkwo finds himself at the centre of a transfer tug of war and a Director who believes he wants to return to Austria.

CREWE, ENGLAND - AUGUST 20: Arthur Okonkwo of Crewe Alexandra attempts to punch the ball under pressure from Danny Hylton of Crewe Alexand during the Sky Bet League Two between Crewe Alexandra and Northampton Town at Mornflake Stadium on August 20, 2022 in Crewe, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)
CREWE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 20: Arthur Okonkwo of Crewe Alexandra attempts to punch the ball under pressure from Danny Hylton of Crewe Alexand during the Sky Bet League Two between Crewe Alexandra and Northampton Town at Mornflake Stadium on August 20, 2022 in Crewe, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

Arthur Okonkwo: Centre of attention

A successful loan spell

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 15: Arthur Okonkwo of Arsenal in action during the Premier League 2 match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on April 15, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 15: Arthur Okonkwo of Arsenal in action during the Premier League 2 match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on April 15, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Okonkwo’s loan spell at Sturm Graz has been a defining period in the 21-year-old goalkeeper’s budding career.

Making waves in Austria, Okonkwo’s commendable performances have put him on the radar of numerous clubs across England and Germany.

His success includes a victory in the Austrian Cup and challenging for the league title, both of which have significantly boosted his profile.

Okonkwo’s uncertain future

Arthur Okonkwo celebrating winning the OFB Cup with Sturm Graz (Photo via Okonkwo on Instagram)
Arthur Okonkwo celebrating winning the OFB Cup with Sturm Graz (Photo via Okonkwo on Instagram)

While Okonkwo’s contract with Arsenal runs till June 2024, the young goalkeeper’s future is anything but certain.

Behind Aaron Ramsdale and Matt Turner in the pecking order at Emirates, a critical decision regarding his future looms large.

Despite the intense competition, Okonkwo’s stellar performances in Austria could pave the way for a move this summer.

Sturm Graz keen on retaining Okonkwo

Arthur Okonkwo playing for Sturm Graz (Photo via Okonkwo on Instagram)
Arthur Okonkwo playing for Sturm Graz (Photo via Okonkwo on Instagram)

Andreas Schicker, Sturm Graz’s Managing Director Sport, has expressed a strong desire for Okonkwo to stay on.

“I have a feeling he would like to stay. I also think that from a sporting point of view there can be nothing better than playing for Sturm Graz next year,” said Schicker.

This statement indicates a high possibility of the Gunners’ shot-stopper re-joining the Austrian outfit, provided he extends his contract with Arsenal.

As the end of the season approaches, the spotlight rests on Okonkwo.

The young goalkeeper, who has already shown remarkable potential, now faces an important crossroads in his career.

With several paths open, it remains to be seen where Okonkwo’s next step will take him, with Sturm Graz eagerly waiting in the wings.