Arsenal Legend Henry Demands Montreal Impact Sign Okonkwo, Talks Scheduled On Monday

Published: January 10, 2020

Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has informed the powers that be at Major League Soccer club Montreal Impact to re-sign Nigeria U23 international Orji Okonkwo.

The Bologna-owned winger made a splash in his debut season in the MLS, finishing the 2019 campaign with 8 goals from 28 appearances and received the Giuseppe-Saputo Trophy as the club's Most Valuable Player.

New Montreal Impact manager Henry is aware of the qualities of Okonkwo and wants the club to prioritize the signing of the 2015 U17 World Cup winner.

The former France international has held preliminary talks with Okonkwo's camp and a meeting between the player's advisers and Bologna President Joey Saputo is scheduled for Monday, January 13.

Although Montreal Impact are very confident of getting the deal over the line simply because of their relationship with Bologna, Okonkwo's return to Montreal Impact is not cast in stone as he is also on the radar of German, French and Belgian teams plus another club from Italy's top-flight.

If talks are fruitful, the Nigerian will join Montreal Impact on at least a six-month loan deal.

The 21-year-old is presently in his homeland as he was given an extended holiday by Bologna but he's expected to return to Italy in the coming days to begin training with the Serie A club.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : impactmontreal.com