Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson has emerged as a shock transfer target for Premier League leaders Liverpool, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
The 23-year-old emerged as the Black Cats’ first choice shotstopper midway through the 2021/22 season following a successful loan spell at then-National League club Notts County. Having spent the first half of the campaign at Meadow Lane, he returned to the North East and was immediately given a starting berth as Sunderland triumphed in the League One play-offs to return to the second tier.
He has been an ever-present since, starting all of the Wearsiders 27 Championship fixtures this term. He committed his future to the club in September, penning fresh terms which will keep him at the Stadium of Light until 2028.
Despite that, his performances over the last couple of seasons have caught the eye of Liverpool, who could be on the lookout for a new goalkeeper this summer. According to Nixon, current number two Caoimhín Kelleher has appeared on the radar of a number of Premier League clubs, as well as Scottish champions Celtic.
The Republic of Ireland international is current playing second fiddle to Alisson but has been given a fair crack of the whip in cup competitions, including the Europa League. The 25-year-old has started all of the Reds’ Carabao Cup fixtures, including the semi final first leg win over Fulham earlier this week.
It is feared that the former academy graduate may want to try his hand at regular first team football though, which is where Patterson comes in. Jurgen Klopp is looking for a top quality replacement who can step in as Alisson’s understudy and can make the step up to the first team in the Brazilian international’s absence.
Nixon states that whilst a move for the one-time England under-21 international is under consideration, there will be no movement this month and would be one to address in the summer once Kelleher’s situation is known.
Patterson was between the sticks for Sunderland yesterday as Ipswich Town came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory at Portman Road. As a result, Michael Beale’s side have been replaced in the top six by Coventry City, who beat champions-elect Leicester City 3-1 at the CBS Arena.
Writer’s View
Speculation like this isn’t helpful at the best of times, especially when Sunderland are in a real scrap to secure a place in the Championship play-offs for the second successive season. However, the Black Cats know they are in a strong situation due to Patterson’s long-term contract.
The goalkeeper would likely cost a hefty sum, although Michael Beale will be hoping that his head isn’t turned. Focus needs to be on the pitch and in particular, the visit of Hull City on Friday night. It’s a fixture that could prove to be a real six-pointer come May, with both clubs fighting it out at the top end of the table. The manager will need his players firing on all cylinders to secure the three points.
Head of Writing
