Arsenal wonderkid is wanted by Spain despite having played for England Under 17s

Both England and Spain are battling for the registration of Arsenal wonderkid Charlie Patino who has dual nationality despite featuring for the Three Lions at the under-15, 16 and 17 stages.

The 17-year-old midfelder is highly thought of at the Emirates having featured regularly for the under-23s.

Boss Mikel Arteta is a huge fan having invited the player to train with the first-team on several occassions.

Patino was signed by Arsene Wenger as an 11-year-old from Luton Town for £10,000 and has been dubbed the next Jack Wilshere by Arsenal fans.

And while his future in London looks to be confirmed with football.london reporting the teengaer will sign a new deal at the Emirates once he reaches 18, his international future is far from certain.

Despite representing England at youth level, Patino also eligible to play for La Roja due to a qualifying connection; his father is Spanish.

Cadena Ser report Luis Enrqique has earmarked the youngster "in red" with seduction work having began months ago to try and persuade the youngster to ditch the Three Lions and link up with their youth set-up instead.

It's not just the national side that have been impressed with Patino; Barcelona are said to have sent scouts to watch his matches at Arsenal.

Are you excited about the future of Charlie Patino? Let us know in the comments section.

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Gareth Southgate has always been an advocate of embedding youth into the England set-up with Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham all now key components of the squad.

But the Three Lions gaffer will be wary of losing out on more new talent with Jamal Musiala having declared for Germany earlier this year despite representing England at youth level.

It's also rumoured Callum Hudson-Odoi will switch alligences to Ghana having grown frustrated with a lack of opportunities under Southgate.

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