The Stadium of Light, home of Sunderland [Credit: Imago]
The Stadium of Light, home of Sunderland [Credit: Imago]

Southampton ready bid to sign Sunderland ace amid exit news

Jack Dawson

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Sunderland could see many of their star players leave this summer after an overall brilliant Championship season.

With the regular Championship campaign now over, all that is between Sunderland and the Premier League is the playoffs. 

Regis Le Bris’ side will need to get past Coventry City in the semi-finals if they are to face either Sheffield United or Bristol City in the final. 

While the potential rewards for winning are immense, the price for losing could be costly.

Many of Sunderland’s biggest stars are already being linked away, including Chris Rigg. However, if promotion isn’t achieved, they also look set to lose Anthony Patterson after the latest development surrounding the goalkeeper.

Anthony Patterson, Sunderland
Anthony Patterson has been linked away from Sunderland in the past (Credit: Imago).

Southampton prepare bid for Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson 

After Southampton’s terrible Premier League campaign, they are now preparing to rebuild their squad. 

An instant return to the Premier League will be their aim, and they are now scouting players out to make this a reality. 

According to the Sun on Sunday, page 55, (4 May), Patterson is being eyed by the Saints as a potential replacement for Aaron Ramsdale. 

Anthony Patterson in 2024/25
Appearances 42
Goals conceded 42
Clean sheets14
Patterson has had a decent campaign for Sunderland

The England international is likely to leave St. Mary’s this summer meaning the club will need a new number one. 

Southampton are keen on Patterson and may make a move if Sunderland fail to get promoted. 

£10 million is believed to be enough to secure his services. However, the Saints also face competition from Tottenham and Burnley.

Patterson has been linked to Man United in the past with his future at Sunderland now in serious question.

Chris Rigg playing for Sunderland
Sunderland ace Chris Rigg could also leave the club [Credit: Imago]

Importance of promotion for Sunderland cannot be understated 

As the weeks go up, it looks incredibly likely that if Sunderland do not get promoted, their squad could be dismantled in the summer. 

Numerous players are constantly linked away thanks to their successful season. 

The main star being Jobe Bellingham who is extremely likely to leave Sunderland if fail in the playoffs. 

Therefore, it could take years to get the Black Cats into the top six again so it is a must for the club see the final games out and achieve their goal. 

The team is more than capable of winning the playoffs, now they must complete this task. 

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