Charlie Patino to extend his Arsenal deal amid Barcelona interest | OneFootball

Charlie Patino is set to sign an extension to his Arsenal contract when he turns 18 next month, despite recent links to Barcelona.

Charlie Patino with the Arsenal u23s against Crystal Palace (Photo via David Price on Twitter)

Speaking to the Latte Firm YouTube channel, Football.London Arsenal correspondent Chris Wheatley revealed that Charlie Patino will be signing a new contract next month when he turns 18.

The Mirror had reported that Barcelona were linked with a move for Patino, one which could appeal to the youngster.

In response to those links, Wheatley added that we “don’t have to worry about that. He’s staying at Arsenal.”

Patino signed his first professional contract with Arsenal last year, once he’d turned 17, but there are limits on the length of pro deals for under-18s.

So to get him tied down for the long term, Arsenal need to extend again once he’s 18. That’s apparently exactly what they’re set to do.

Patino looks set for his first appearance in an Arsenal first-team squad next week, facing AFC Wimbledon in the League Cup.

Wheatley reported on his YouTube channel that Charlie Patino is likely to be in the Arsenal squad for the upcoming game against AFC Wimbledon at the Emirates Stadium.

The midfielder is expected to be on the bench for the game.

Patino is reportedly impressing in his sessions with the Arsenal first team, and he’s certainly doing well with the u23s. He scored an excellent solo goal against Manchester United most recently, winning the ball and beating three players before chipping home.

As well as the u23 Manchester United victory, Patino also did well in the EFL Trophy recently.

Though the Arsenal u21s lost 2-1 to Swindon Town’s first team, Patino put in an excellent display from midfield. He won 18 of his 21 individual duels, earned nine free-kicks, made five tackles, and created two chances despite his deeper role.