Anthony Patterson could be on the verge of a permament exit from the Stadium of Light
Wrexham are interested in Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson
Wrexham are interested in Sunderland keeper Anthony Patterson
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Wrexham are reportedly attempting to sign Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson as they look to bolster their ranks ahead of another push for the Premier League.
It is understood that both permanent and loan arrangements are under consideration for the shot-stopper who helped the Black Cats reach the top level before playing second fiddle to Robin Roefs.
Patterson spent the second half of last season on loan from Millwall and is set to move again.
According to journalist Alan Nixon, the ambitious Championship club hope to reach an agreement with Sunderland over the academy graduate, who could be available for around £7m.
Wrexham may be prepared to pay a transfer fee but would reportedly prefer either a straightforward loan or an initial loan containing an option or obligation to buy.
Patterson is expected to leave the Stadium of Light this summer after falling behind Roefs in Sunderland’s goalkeeping hierarchy. The 26-year-old has nevertheless returned to the Academy of Light and is training with the club’s senior goalkeepers while his future is resolved.
Millwall are also keen to bring Patterson back to The Den following his successful loan spell during the second half of last season.
The Lions recruited him in February after he had been restricted to one senior appearance for Sunderland during the opening months of the campaign.
Nixon’s report also claimed Sunderland’s asking price had discouraged Rangers from progressing their interest. Wolverhampton Wanderers are another club to have considered Patterson but would reportedly need to move one of their existing goalkeepers on before making an approach.
Anthony Patterson in action for Millwall
Anthony Patterson in action for Millwall last season(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Patterson’s Sunderland story has already included two successful promotion campaigns, with his career taking off after initially spending time on the senior bench during the 2018/19 season.
Three years later, he was central to a successful play-off final for a second time. Patterson produced two important saves against Sheffield United at Wembley, including a crucial second-half stop while Sunderland trailed, before Regis Le Bris’ side recovered to win 2–1 and secure promotion to the Premier League.
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