Fulham are exploring a move for Arsenal’s 20-year-old whizkid Charlie Patino in an attempt to strengthen their midfield.
According to Football Transfers, Charlie Patino has emerged as a target for Fulham in the summer, with Marco Silva eager to strengthen his midfield. The Cottagers could explore a move for Arsenal’s 20-year-old whizkid, who has had a productive season with Swansea in the Championship.
Fulham eyeing Charlie Patino swoop
Charlie Patino has been primed for big things in the future, but his immediate future at Arsenal remains uncertain. Coming through the Hale End academy, the midfielder is already a favourite of the Gunners crowd, but they have not seen him much in the flesh playing for the first team.
He did score in his debut in the League Cup for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta, who has continued to rate him as a player for the future. Arsenal were eager to protect their investment and triggered a two-year extension back in December 2022, meaning Patino’s current deal expires in the summer of 2025.
A few clubs have been interested in Patino, with Juventus monitoring the 20-year-old whizkid with intent. Fulham have now entered the chase for the midfielder, as Marco Silva’s eyes change to his side in the summer, as the Cottagers might explore a move.
Joao Palhinha might continue to attract the interest of big clubs and might depart from Craven Cottage in the summer. While Patino might not be seen as a direct replacement, he indeed can become their long-term holding midfielder, with the 20-year-old whizkid showing plenty of signs to excel in that role in the future.
Is Charlie Patino’s Arsenal future in doubt?
Before the Gunners triggered the two-year extension, credible reports were stating Patino was ready to leave the club to play regular football elsewhere. That might still be the case if the midfielder finds the road to Arsenal’s first team difficult, as he would love to forge a career playing regular football.
Despite the Gunners having a solid stable of top midfielders, a few critical departures like that of Jorginho or Thomas Partey in the future might open a small gap for Patino to exploit and make his mark on Arteta’s mind. Hence, despite suggestions about a possible departure, with Fulham keen, the 20-year-old whizkid might still get his big break under Arteta potentially this summer or possibly next.
Why? He can’t be even get on the pitch for a team in the Championship relegation fringe!
I would like to be kind but when he has played he has been found wanting. A couple of good performances and that was it. Whoscored has rated him at 6.49.