Spain plotting move to poach England Under-18 starlet Charlie Patino with midfielder likened to Jack Wilshere and Liam Brady poised to make his Arsenal first-team debut
- Spain could poach Arsenal and England under-18 wonderkid Charlie Patino
- Watford-born 17-year-old is eligible to play for Spain via his father Julio
- Patino could make his first team debut for Arsenal against AFC Wimbledon
- He is regarded as one of the best talents to emerge from club’s academy in years
- CLICK HERE to read Sportsmail’s profile of Charlie Patino
England face renewed competition from Spain for Arsenal starlet Charlie Patino, who could make his senior debut against AFC Wimbledon on Wednesday night.
Spain are plotting a move to poach the exciting 17-year-old midfielder from the England set-up.
Watford-born Patino has represented England up to Under 18 level but is eligible for Spain via his father Julio and has grandparents living there.
Spain are plotting a swoop for Arsenal and England under-18 midfielder Charlie Patino (right)
There is a chance Mikel Arteta (pictured with Patino) will hand the midfielder his first-team debut when Arsenal host AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night
His recent development has prompted the Spanish Federation to revive their attempts to persuade him to switch allegiances.
Patino joined Arsenal from Luton aged 11 and has emerged as the latest big hope from their academy, with his journey to the first team gathering pace this season.
He has been likened to Jack Wilshere and Liam Brady and has impressed Mikel Arteta and his new team-mates since being promoted to train regularly with the Gunners’ first team.
