Patrick Roberts contract could be extended at Sunderland as Birmingham transfer claim emerges
Patrick Roberts’ future at Sunderland is somewhat up in the air.
Sunderland brought 14 new players to the Stadium of Light in the summer, and as a result, several of those who got the Black Cats back to the Premier League dropped out of the reckoning.
Roberts was one of them, having joined Birmingham City on loan in the Championship.
Since his move, Roberts has featured in 10 games for the Blues, with three goal contributions to his name, with fans already keen to see the former Man City winger join permanently.
Patrick Roberts hailed for Birmingham impact
Roberts is a popular figure at Sunderland, having been a regular starter ever since the days of being a League One club.
His main concern emerged as a result of his lack of goals, though his ability to get fans off their seats often overshadowed the lack of numbers he provided.
Speaking exclusively to Mackem News, Birmingham City journalist Brian Dick explained how Roberts has improved in an attacking sense.
“He’s been pretty effective in attacking positions, to be honest,” he said.
“In a team that hasn’t created bundles until the last three games, he’d arguably been the man most likely to unlock the door for Blues.
“In recent matches, he has developed a very good partnership with underlapping right back Tomoki Iwata and has been one half of the most influential partnership in the team.
“Overall, his performances have been of a high standard, excellent movement, lovely vision, good touch and the odd goal contribution. There’s certainly no shot-shy narrative coming from Blues fans.”
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What does the future hold for Patrick Roberts?
As loved as he is on Wearside, it’s hard to see his future being at the Stadium of Light, given the direction they have headed since the summer.
The Wearsiders hold a one-year extension clause in his contract, and Brian Dick believes that they may look to trigger that to get some value out of his exit, should that occur.
“There are so many variables at play here. Firstly, it will depend on Roberts staying fit and playing well. Then it’ll depend on what division the Blues are in next season,” he said.
- 599 minutes played
- One goal
- Two assists
- 19 chances created
- 12 completed dribbles
“If they go up and he contributes, it’s possible they could look to make the deal permanent. However, if they stay in the Championship, it could be that at 29 years old next season, he’ll want to at least have a look for a Premier League club.
“Blues have made permanent January moves for loan players in the past, so it’s not out of the question that they would look to do so with Roberts.
“However, Sunderland do have a year’s option, so they might invoke that just to preserve some transfer value. It’s difficult to predict but I’d be surprised if the situation wasn’t already being explored at Birmingham.”
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