Official: Arsenal confirm two Nigerian players have signed professional contracts 

Through their official website, Arsenal have confirmed that Brian Okonkwo, the younger brother of Super Eagles-eligible shot-stopper Arthur Okonkwo, has signed a professional deal with the club.

This follows a report from allnigeriasoccer.com three days ago that the goalkeeper has agreed a new deal with the club.

There is also confirmation that quad-national fullback Josh Nicols, who is eligible for Nigeria through his mother, has also signed a professional deal with the Premier League giants.

The duo join Maldini Kacurri, Ismeal Kabia, Sebastián Ferdinand, Harrison Dudziak and Osman Kamara as the new set of players handed professional contracts.

It became important for Arsenal to persuade Okonkwo to sign a new deal after the departure of four talented goalkeepers including his older brother Arthur and Ovie Ejeheri.

The 18-year-old had his biggest progression with the North London side last season featuring for the U18s and as well as the development side, making three appearances in the Premier League 2.

He will be hoping to continue his development in the forthcoming season particularly by featuring prominently for the U21s which will get him closer to getting involved with the first team.

Nichols also made huge progress in his development last term, making nine appearances in the Premier League 2 as well as featuring in the playoffs against Manchester United and Chelsea.

The 17-year-old will also be hoping to feature more regularly for Mehmet Ali's side in the next campaign.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com