Released Arsenal 19yo goes on trial | OneFootball

Brian Okonkwo appears to be on the verge of signing for West Bromwich Albion’s Under-21 squad following a successful trial, marking the next step in his career after being released by Arsenal earlier this summer.

Photo via Arsenal.com

The 19-year-old goalkeeper started for West Brom’s Under-21s in their Premier League 2 fixture against Aston Villa at Damson Park on Monday, a match they lost 3-1.

Okonkwo spent seven years at Arsenal after joining the academy in 2018. Initially a striker, he converted to goalkeeping and progressed through the youth ranks to make seven appearances for the Under-21s, conceding 14 goals and keeping one cleansheet.

He signed a professional contract in 2024 but was released when it expired a year later.

Photo via Arsenal.com

He gained senior experience through loan spells at Hitchin Town, Cheshunt and Leatherhead, and made four appearances for Hitchin last season in the Southern Premier Central Division, where his performances earned praise despite the limited opportunities.

Okonkwo, the younger brother of Arthur Okonkwo, now at Wrexham, did not make a senior appearance for Arsenal. His release at the end of June came as part of a broader clear-out of youth players with limited first-team prospects.

West Brom’s Under-21 side currently sit bottom of Premier League 2 after two defeats, and Okonkwo’s arrival would offer both cover and long-term potential.

For the teenager, it is a chance to re-establish his career in English football after leaving Hale End without breaking into the first team.