Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly setting their sights on a bargain deal for Sunderland’s standout goalkeeper Anthony Patterson.
The 23-year-old has been turning heads with his performances in the Championship, potentially paving the way for a lucrative switch to the Premier League. HITC reports that the young ‘keeper has caught the attention of the top-tier clubs after proving his mettle for Sunderland.
It appears both the Gunners and the Reds are looking to strengthen their goalkeeping departments come the summer and Patterson is seen as an attractive prospect. Scouts from the two footballing powerhouses were spotted at Sunderland’s recent match against Bristol City, per the report, where Patterson impressed with a clean sheet in a 0-0 encounter.
Patterson’s record speaks volumes, having not missed a single minute of Sunderland’s league action this season, racking up 12 clean sheets across 42 Championship games. His home-grown status only adds to his appeal for Premier League teams on the lookout for talent.
The promising shot-stopper has already received high praise, with ex-Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray lauding him last year. “He is a very unassuming kid and he keeps himself to himself,” Mowbray explained. “What is fantastic is he keeps the ball out of the net.
“He is a big framed goalie but he uses his frame fantastically well. He has got a personality that is good for a goalkeeper.
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“He’s not up bouncing around all of the time. He’s calm, assured and relaxes the back line. He does his job. He wants to learn. As his confidence grows, he has got a huge future in front of him.”
Arsenal are reportedly preparing to part ways with second-choice keeper Aaron Ramsdale as the transfer window approaches. Mikel Arteta is believed to be keen on making David Raya’s temporary stay from Brentford permanent, with a £27m option to buy included in his deal.
Similarly, Liverpool’s second-choice goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher could be on his way out of Anfield come summer. With Alisson Becker sidelined due to injury, Kelleher has been given a run of eight consecutive Premier League starts.
However, once the Brazilian number one is fit, Kelleher is expected to return to a substitute role. Desiring regular first-team football, it seems increasingly likely that Kelleher will seek a move away from the Reds once the transfer market reopens.
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