Arsenal loanee Charlie Patino is "close" to a return for Blackpool, football.london understands. Patino was injured in his first Championship start for the Seasiders, having impressed in his two substitute appearances and EFL Cup outing.
Patino is considered one of, if not, the most talented youngsters coming through the latest generation of Arsenal’s Hale End academy. First-team football was necessary to allow the England youth international the minutes to develop at such a crucial point in his progression.
Now, after several weeks on the sidelines, Patino is hoping to return to action. Blackpool play against Brooke Norton-Cuffy’s Rotherham side on Wednesday evening before travelling down to London to play Millwall.
READ MORE: Kieran Tierney learning new Arsenal role as Mikel Arteta sets Oleksandr Zinchenko challenge
The midweek clash may come too soon for Patino but inclusion on the bench in the near future will be a big boost for him and Blackpool, who have been very impressed by the 18-year-old, football.london understands.
Arsenal’s own midfield has been heavily impacted by injuries. Mikel Arteta has lost both Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny already this season, although the former is expected to return soon.
That said, with the reliability of some midfielders questioned, Arsenal tried to move for Douglas Luiz on deadline day. They were unsuccessful with three bids being turned down by Aston Villa, but should they wish to strengthen in midfield this winter, there is an opportunity to solve issues in-house.
football.london understands a recall clause exists in Patino's contract. The club has already demonstrated its willingness to exercise these clauses as had been shown with Eddie Nketiah, Miguel Azeez and Harry Clarke previously.
Patino was left out of the Arsenal squad which travelled to the US this summer. Arteta explained the choice by referencing both Reuell Walters and Folarin Balogun’s inclusion in addition to highlighting Patino's attendance for the brief pre-season spell in Germany.
"It was [a tough decision to leave so many academy players behind] but it was impossible," he told football.london. "So we have Reuell here, we have Flo as well and we have tried to balance. But we had a lot of young players as well in Germany, so I think we have the right balance."
READ NEXT:
Arsenal given PSV fixture update as Metropolitan Police make crucial decision
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
Arsenal have their own Luis Diaz as Edu's transfer masterplan continues amid Saka contract delay
Arsenal given boost as Nicolas Pepe improves transfer value with early Nice performances
The £50m Arsenal reason William Saliba is thriving with Mikel Arteta masterstroke getting better
