Why Arsenal are making a big mistake if they sell Charlie Patino

Charlie Patino has joined up with the Arsenal squad for pre-season following his return from a loan spell with Swansea City. However, he might not be around for much longer.

A report by Nizaar Kinsella for the Evening Standard in April revealed Patino is set for a summer transfer abroad in search of regular first team football.

Having failed to break into the Arsenal first team since making his debut in 2021, it comes as no surprise that Patino is looking for a move away. However, this could still be avoided as Mikel Arteta's side would be making a big mistake if they are to let the midfielder leave this summer.

Why Arsenal are making a big mistake if they sell Charlie Patino

Patino has spent the last two seasons on loan at Blackpool and Swansea City respectively and many would think he has gained enough experience to be given a chance at Arsenal.

He impressed during his time with the Tangerines but had a more mixed spell with Swansea. Patino started just one game after 1 January and that was the final day of the Championship season. Despite his loan struggles, Patino still deserves a chance with the first team.

Arsenal could be in need of a midfielder this summer with Thomas Partey looking likely to leave the club. While a new signing is the likely option, Patino looks like he could be the ideal replacement for the Ghanaian. It would also mean saving money that could be put toward prioritising another position.

He is capable of playing as both an attacking and defensive midfielder, as well as a central midfielder, so would be a great versatile option for Mikel Arteta. Patino is still young so will struggle at times but can learn under the guidance of Arteta and the squad's most senior player Jorginho. He also has a chance to impress the Spaniard throughout pre-season.

His ability and talent is incredibly clear so his sale would be a big loss for the club. Arsenal's hopes of at least receiving a decent fee for Patino look unlikely to be fulfilled considering his contract is set to expire next summer. Any buying club is likely to acquire him at a discounted price.

Getting rid of a youngster who now has first team experience and is capable of being an ideal replacement for a possibly departing player would be a big mistake on Arsenal's behalf, let alone for a less than decent fee. The Gunners must try their best to keep hold of Charlie Patino this summer but unfortunately that looks set to be a very tough challenge.

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