Folarin Balogun sets worrying example for Arsenal youngsters as Charlie Patino ponders move

Folarin Balogun has set a worrying example for Arsenal youngsters to follow, after reports suggested he was against another loan next season.

Balogun has enjoyed an excellent season on loan at French side Reims, scoring 18 goals in Ligue 1.

The 21-year-old is due to return to the Emirates at the end of the campaign where a decision will be made over his future.

However, The Athletic claimed he had no intention to act as understudy to Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, and would not accept another loan.

Mikel Arteta faces a tricky decision on whether to reintegrate Balogun into the team or cash in on the striker while his stock is high.

Regardless of where he may end up, Balogun's intentions appear to have had a ripple affect across the English channel, with fellow Gunners academy graduate Charlie Patino seemingly keen to follow in the Englishman's footsteps.

Patino following Balogun's example

19-year-old midfielder Patino has spent the season on loan at Blackpool, where he has amassed 33 appearances in the Championship, chipping in with six goal contributions.

The teenager has been tipped for a bright future at Arsenal. However, reports on Monday have claimed he is eager to move away permanently this summer in search of regular first team football.

Arteta is desperate to invest in his midfield, with Declan Rice surfacing as the club's priority target. Indeed, the 24-year-old's arrival would limit Patino's first-team opportunities.

On balance, it would appear the youth of Hale End are unwilling to wait for a position to become free in the starting 11, and would rather move on where they can play week in, week out.

It is a pattern that may concern Arteta, who has relied heavily on the likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe during his time as manager - both of whom ascended from the Gunners' academy system