Sunderland are expected to keep Southampton target Patrick Roberts, after Russell Martin’s side pulled out of the deal, according to journalist Jack Rosser.
The 26-year-old looked destined to complete a permanent switch to Southampton, following teammate Ross Stewart but it now appears that the Saints have pulled out of the deal and he will therefore remain at the Stadium Of Light.
The transfer saga
Patrick Roberts has been the subject of interest from Southampton and Russell Martin’s side made a £5 million bid yesterday in an attempt to land the winger who has less than 12 months left on his existing contract.
However, despite the bid and his contract status, Sunderland is now set to keep the winger and is now unlikely to pursue a deal to sign Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who was a reported target earlier this morning.
Does this affect Ross Stewart?
Southampton’s move for Ross Stewart is not in connection with their pursuit of Patrick Roberts, meaning that both deals won’t be off if one fails to materialise unless the Saints pull out of that deal as well.
Similarly, Sunderland have signed Chelsea’s Mason Burstow on a season-long loan deal, which implies that Ross Stewart is now ‘freed up’ to complete a move to St. Mary’s. However, Southampton have also pulled out of the deal to allow Che Adams to join Wolves.
Writer’s View
News that Patrick Roberts is now expected to stay at the Stadium of Light should come as a major boost to the Black Cats and to manager Tony Mowbray. Roberts is arguably one of the best wingers in the Championship and certainly brings a lot of experience to the club.
The aim now will be for Sunderland to try and tie him down to a new contract, given his existing deal expires next summer. Sunderland cannot afford to let a player of his quality leave for free which means it could be a very interesting next few weeks.
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