Arthur Okonkwo is BACK at Wrexham! Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney complete deal to sign goalkeeper permanently following Arsenal exit

Okonkwo played a key part in the Red Dragons' promotion to League One after joining on loan from the Gunners. The goalkeeper became an integral member of the side and retaining his services became key for Phil Parkinson. When he was released from Arsenal at the end of his contract in north London, a return to Wales appeared inevitable.

On returning to Wrexham, Okonkwo told the club: “I’m feeling very good, I’m so happy to have finally signed and I can’t wait to get back to it.

“It was amazing last season. We had so many good memories together with the fans, and knowing they wanted me back was a big reason that I’m back. It’s good to finally be here.

“This is home, it’s felt like that since last season when I came in. The co-chairmen are so good, the manager, the coaches, the players, and obviously the backroom staff that you don’t see. It’s so good to be here.”

The Wrexham boss was equally delighted to welcome back the goalkeeper to the squad. He said: "“We’re delighted with the signing. It’s such an important one for us.

“Arthur was outstanding for us last year, and since the season finished we’ve worked really hard to secure the signing.

“It’s great credit to all the work that has gone on behind the scenes, because it’s never straightforward but we’ve always said it’s important to have perseverance to try and get your number one target – and Arthur certainly was that."

“It’s a great first signing of the summer for us.”

Okonkwo made 36 appearances in League Two last season, conceding just 30 goals in the process. The goalkeeper kept a total of 14 clean sheets and sured up a defence that had initially struggled and saw Ben Foster retire just five games into the season.

Wrexham and Okonkwo will begin the preparations ahead of a return to League One for the first time since 2005 by going away to the USA. In the States they will face off against Bournemouth and Chelsea, before heading north of the border to face Vancouver Whitecaps.