Promising Arsenal Youth Is All Set To Sign Contract Extension Despite Interest From Barcelona

In a recent interview, reliable journalist Chris Wheatley has revealed that Arsenal’s wonder kid Charlie Patino is set to stay at Arsenal. Charlie is 17 at the moment and will sign a professional contract with the first team once he turns 18, Wheatley tells. Several news agencies had previously reported that Barcelona were in the race and were interested to sign Charlie Patino and that the offer could appeal the youngster.

Speaking to an Arsenal-based channel run by Arsenal fans on YouTube (Latte Firm), Wheatley said, “Fans don’t have to worry about the Barcelona links. He’s staying at Arsenal.”

Who is Charlie Patino?

Regarded as Hale End’s brightest product, Charlie Patino is a 17-year-old who is a central midfielder. Patino has already made a name for himself after shining for Arsenal U-23s, and his goal vs Manchester United in the Papa John’s trophy attracted a lot of attention as well.

Charlie has been compared to former Arsenal player, Jack Wilshere as both of them have a lot in common. Both of them play in the midfield, both of them are from Arsenal’s academy and both rose up the ranks. While Patino is still only 17, he has attracted interest from top clubs around Europe, including La Liga giants FC Barcelona.

While the offer may seem interesting to the midfielder, he is reportedly set to sign a new professional contract with Arsenal very soon. The Gunners are known for their academy which has produced some fantastic players over the years and Charlie certainly looks set to become another star in the making.

He has already trained with the first team on several occasions, as gaffer Mikel Arteta rates him at the highest level as well. Arsenal face AFC Wimbledon up next in the third round of the Carabao Cup, and this could be the perfect opportunity for Charlie Patino to make his senior Arsenal debut.