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Arsenal could face a contract dilemma over talented midfielder Charlie Patino.
THE LOWDOWN: EMERGING STAR
The 18-year-old is a highly-rated prospect and came through the ranks at the Arsenal academy. His exploits with the youth team led to Mikel Arteta handing him his debut in the first team last season.
Hopes were high that he would go on to become a regular this season, but it has not worked out that way as the midfielder has been loaned out to Blackpool in the Championship.
Patino has done well to showcase himself with the Tangerines and recently earned the praise of his manager. He is becoming a regular in the squad, playing in nine matches already and scoring once, and a report emerged that the Gunners could possibly recall him if other options fail.
THE LATEST: CONTRACT DILEMMA
Arsenal are on the verge of losing academy starlet Patino on a free transfer, with the midfielder in the last year of his contract.
The Athletic reports that the teenager’s future is looking uncertain, with the youngster set to become a free agent at the end of the season.
Although the Gunners have the option to activate a two-year extension, talks are yet to take place, and that has put the youngster’s future in doubt.
Patino wants to remain at the Emirates Stadium but is waiting for his parent club to initiate talks. His performances at Blackpool has been generating interest from clubs in England as well as from abroad.
The midfielder starred in Blackpool’s 3-1 victory over Watford last weekend, with Arsenal scouts reportedly in attendance at Bloomfield Road.
THE VERDICT: QUICK DECISION
Arsenal have a habit of dilly-dallying over contract matters, and the club needs to fix up in order to stop losing its best young talents to clubs outside the Premier League or England.
Patino has a huge prospect and it is believed that Mikel Arteta rates the midfielder highly. If that is the case, a renewal should be activated immediately.
