A number of top clubs in England are trying to sign Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino.
Patino has been fantastic for Blackpool since settling into his role in the middle of the park.
Manager Michael Appleton said that Patino was ‘as good as anything I’ve seen’ after one of his recent performances.
He also received praise from Bukayo Saka after scoring in the West Lancashire derby last weekend.
The report suggests that Arsenal weren’t sure about loaning Patino out this season.
He was expected to be part of Arsenal’s under-21’s side while also being involved in the Europa League.

However, it’s certainly suited the 19-year-old going out on loan to the Championship where he’s thriving.
Arteta has only picked Patino twice, but he did score on his debut in the Carabao Cup last season.
Top clubs are now trying to sign Patino from Arsenal, with his contract situation also in limbo.
Patino’s current deal runs out next year, although Arsenal do have the option to extend it.
There’s a deadline on when that extension can be triggered though, and at this point talks over a new contract haven’t started.
Top clubs trying to sign Patino
The dynamic central midfielder certainly has a bright future ahead of him.
The ‘outstanding’ 19-year-old is comfortable playing as a number eight or in a slightly deeper role.
He currently doesn’t possess the attributes to mimic Thomas Partey’s role at Arsenal as the deepest midfielder.
However, he may be the natural successor to Granit Xhaka’s position, and the Swiss midfielder is currently showing how valuable that role is.

Although the report from Goal doesn’t name the top clubs trying to sign Patino, he’ll certainly be on plenty of manager’s radars.
Arsenal are still in the market for a central midfielder in January, with the likes Weston McKennie linked with a move.
The solution might be much simpler, and cheaper, than that if they’re able to recall Patino.
The England under-20 international has a very bright future, but there’s a chance it might not be at Arsenal.
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