Sunderland target Petrovic agrees personal terms ahead of transfer, ‘medical pending’
Djordje Petrovic has agreed on personal terms ahead of a Chelsea exit after links with Sunderland.
Petrovic was targeted as the Black Cats aim to sign a Premier League-ready goalkeeper, despite Anthony Patterson’s strong campaign last season.
Sunderland are embarking on an ambitious summer window in which they have already broken their record transfer fee twice, with more additions expected.
Petrovic had an outstanding loan spell at Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, and while he will not be returning to the French club, he will not be moving to the Stadium of Light either.
Bournemouth agree Petrovic transfer ahead of Sunderland
Other Premier League sides were also interested in Petrovic as it became clear that Chelsea would sell him this summer, and Sunderland have now been beaten to the goalkeeper.
Dominik Schneider has now reported via X (8 July) that Bournemouth have agreed a deal with Chelsea to sign Petrovic. The 25-year-old has agreed terms with the Cherries, with a medical pending.
| Djordje Petrovic’s 2024/25 Ligue 1 statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 31 |
| Clean sheets | 10 |
| Goals conceded per game | 1.2 |
| Penalties saved | 1/8 |
| Saves per game | 3.6 (74%) |
| Goals prevented | 7.91 |
Bournemouth had fellow Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan last season, but with the Spaniard moving to Arsenal, Petrovic will now arrive as his long-term replacement.
This leaves Sunderland in the lurch as they will now miss out on one of their key targets, and will be forced to look elsewhere.
Sunderland need an experienced goalkeeper
Patterson is a promising talent, but if Sunderland are to stay in the Premier League next season, they will need a more experienced head between the posts.
Aaron Ramsdale could be an option following his relegation with Southampton, but the finances may not be feasible for Sunderland.
Whoever the Black Cats target should ideally be in their prime years and have strong experience in a top-flight league under their belts.
Even if Sunderland elects for a veteran on a short-term deal, an experienced option is a must, and while Petrovic may have been ideal, other goalkeepers can strengthen Régis Le Bris’ side.
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