Arsenal wonderkid Charlie Patino set to join Blackpool on season-long loan

Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino is set to join Blackburn Rovers on a loan move, according to reports. 

The 18-year-old is one of the most promising youngsters to come out of the Gunners academy. 

The English wonderkid quickly progressed through the youth ranks to land his first professional contract in October 2020. 

He also impressed on his senior debut when he struck a goal in the Carabao Cup match against Sunderland in December last year. He also started the Gunners’ 1-0 FA Cup loss to Nottingham Forest in January. 

However, Arsenal are now ready to loan him out to Blackpool for the 2022-23 season, as per Jeorge Bird. 

The Seasiders have been desperate to sign a midfielder after Cameron Brannagan turned them down. 

The Tangerines were set to secure the services of the former Liverpool star after triggering a £1.2 million release clause in his contract. However, Brannagan rejected their offer and instead penned a new deal with Oxford United. 

Best move 

Charlie Patino is full of potential and can be a future star at Arsenal. He is a central midfielder by trade and is known for his ball-playing ability. 

However, the English footballer is only 18-years-old and it is crucial that he plays first-team football in a competitive league at this stage of his career. That’s why, a loan move to Blackpool is best for his development.

He will likely not have been given much game time this season if he had stayed at the Emirates Stadium. 

Patino has impressed so far with his performances but if he wants more opportunities at the Gunners, he needs to shine during his loan spell at the Seasiders.