Patterson is likely to leave Everton this summer after playing a bit-part role for most of his four years at the club. David Moyes wants to sign another right back and is considering Arsenal's Ben White and West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka, which would limit the Scotland star's involvement even further.
The 24-year-old has been on Sheffield United's radar for a while and the Sheffield Star is reporting they continue to monitor him.
The Blades considered an approach in January before signing Ki-Jana Hoever on loan from Wolves, and the Dutchman didn't push Femi Seriki hard enough for his place. Right-back is now a summer priority for Chris Wilder.
A return for Sheffield United hero Kyle Walker is also being considered but the ex-Manchestr City star would need to lower his wage demands and take a significant cut on his Burnley wages.
The report adds that Serie A side Bologna are interested in Patterson and that Rangers could complicate things if they decide to make a move. Spaniards Sevilla have also previously been linked.
“Nathan Patterson is at the age where you have to be playing football,” former Scotland striker Paul Dickov said recently. “He’s had some unfortunate injuries but now that he’s back, he needs game time.
“There’s no doubting his ability; he’s a top young defender, and a move back to Rangers would be good for him. If he’s available, I’m sure there’ll be plenty of clubs interested in him. But I think a move back to Rangers, where he’s comfortable and in surroundings he knows, could reignite his career.”