Romano surprised to see Arsenal player linked with Barcelona move

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Fabrizio Romano has told Caught Offside that he was surprised to see Charlie Patino linked with Barcelona, insisting that Arsenal are very happy with his progress out on loan.

Patino has been a player Gunners fans have been excited about for some time. He has had a taste of first-team football for Mikel Arteta’s men. But he has been able to take his game to another level this season.

The midfielder has been out on loan with Blackpool in the Championship. And he has shone for the club, scoring twice and providing two assists in 15 games.

Romano reacts to Patino being linked with Barcelona

Michael Appleton suggested that he is outstanding, and as good as anyone he has seen when it comes to dealing with the ball. So it is hardly a shock that he is attracting admirers.

In fact, Calciomercato.It reported this week that Barcelona want the 19-year-old.

Patino looks to be most exciting talent possibly coming through at Arsenal currently. And it would appear that he is unlikely to be going anywhere on a permanent basis.

Romano certainly believes that the Gunners have every intention of holding onto Patino. He suggested that Barca taking a look at him took him aback somewhat.

“As we get closer to January it’s inevitable that we’ll get even more transfer gossip stories than usual, and one surprising one I’ve seen involved Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino being a target for Barcelona,” he told Caught Offside.

“Honestly I’ve no news on Patino and Barca, nothing concrete as of now. I’m sure Arsenal are really happy with his progress and he’s really appreciated by all the people in the club.”

Interest flattering, but Arsenal is the place to be

Patino will surely be flattered by the interest from Barcelona. They remain one of the biggest clubs in the world. And being a central midfielder for the Catalan giants carries extra significance given who came before – as well as who now manages the club.

However, he has little reason to want to leave Arsenal.

The Gunners are now back amongst the elite in the Premier League. And if that is a sign of what is to come, the teenager can feel that he can achieve many of his goals while representing the Gunners.