Arsenal fans have been treated to an early Christmas present after an update on Charlie Patino was released.
What’s the story?
Well, the 19-year-old Arsenal wonderkid’s contract was expiring at the end of the season, with many supporters wary of losing a player who is being described as the best product out of Hale End since Bukayo Saka.
Now, however, a clause has been triggered which keeps Patino at the Emirates Stadium until 2025 – according to Charles Watt, Goal’s correspondent for Arsenal.
It means Arsenal fans can breathe a sigh of relief, although the job is not entirely done yet.
Watts adds that Patino’s new contract does not involve a wage increase, so Edu – Director of Football at Arsenal – will need to negotiate fresh terms with the teenager to fend off “widespread interest” from elsewhere.
The England Under-19 international has been on loan at Blackpool so far this season, where he is making a real impact at Bloomfield Road.
Patino has had his own chant created for him by the Blackpool supporters, having impressed across his 17 appearances in the Championship – he has scored two goals, while also providing two assists.
The Watford-born prodigy has already made two appearances for Arsenal’s first-team, scoring just minutes into his debut in a 5-1 win over Sunderland back in December 2021.
Arsenal have a gem in Patino
In our view, it is important for Edu to negotiate improved terms with the attacking midfielder, as Arsenal simply must keep him happy in north London.
Patino’s potential is frightening, and as aforesaid, he is already being tipped to become better than Saka.
Even Barcelona are interested in luring the teenager away from Arsenal – according to Calciomercato.
Therefore, Arsenal must offer him the improved contract his performances for Blackpool deserve, or else they could risk his head being turned by more lucrative proposals elsewhere.
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