Arsenal has exercised a contract option to keep teenage star Charlie Patino with the club till 2025
Arsenal Transfer News: It has been reported in the Evening Standard that the club has used its right to activate the player’s contract extension provision. Thus ensuring the talented midfielder’s continued employment with the club until at least 2025.
Will Charlie Patino stay at Arsenal?
Blackpool boss Michael Appleton has been effusive in his praise of the youngster. He said that the midfielder has “all the elements” to become one of the finest in the future years.
He said: “I’d like to think that he’s made a lot of progress. He’s changed a lot in such a short amount of time. Even when he was very young, people probably questioned whether he could handle some parts of his game. The physicality of it was probably one of those parts. I think he’s done a great job with that.
I think he’s a lot more competitive than most people think. Based on what we want from him, he has had to play in two or three different spots and take on two or three different roles. He liked it, and at a very young age, he stepped up and took responsibility. I think we and Arsenal are both very happy with Charlie. I think Charlie is doing well and is looking forward to the upcoming games.”
What’s next in his future?
Barcelona has shown interest in Patino. But it seems the Spanish powerhouses will have to wait a little longer. Moreover, the North London club is confident in his long-term value to the club. They are prepared to negotiate a new contract with the player’s representatives that might keep him playing at the Emirates for many more years.
Despite the fact that the clause has been activated, Patino is still covered by the original contract conditions until a new one is signed. So, in the next months, the team and player will likely negotiate a new contract.
A product of Arsenal’s development program, the then-19-year-old was officially recognized as an adult in 2021. It was in the summer of 2022 that he was loaned out to Blackpool. It is there that he has been making quite an impression. In 17 Championship appearances, he has contributed to two goals and as many assists.
On Boxing Day, Arsenal will face London rivals West Ham in the Premier League.
