Two Nigeria-eligible teenagers sign professional contracts with Premier League giants Arsenal

ENGLISH Premier League giants Arsenal have signed professional contracts with two young Nigeria-eligible players over the last week offering both teenagers the opportunity to progress into the senior squad.

Arsenal have confirmed that Brian Okonkwo, the younger brother of Super Eagles-eligible goalkeeper Arthur, has signed a professional deal with the club. Then, the club also confirmed that fullback Josh Nicols, who is eligible for Nigeria through his mother, has also signed a professional deal with them.

These two players join the likes of 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 fellow compatriot Ovie Ejeheri.

Brian, 18, 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 Two. 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, 17, also made huge progress in his development last season, making nine appearances in the Premier League Two as well as featuring in the play-offs against Manchester United and Chelsea. Josh will also be hoping to feature more regularly for Arsenal's U18 side in the next campaign.