Sunderland make new Anthony Patterson transfer decision as Regis Le Bris plans revealed
Sunderland are prepared to sell Anthony Patterson in January.
Leeds United travel to the Stadium of Light to take on Sunderland on Sunday afternoon, with a chance to even go fifth for the Black Cats.
Regis Le Bris' side earned a solid point away at Brighton last time out, as they look to extend their unbeaten run to three Premier League games against their fellow promoted rivals.
With the Mackems firmly in the race for Europe, Sunderland will be active in the January window, as Le Bris aims to ensure he has enough depth to see through what has been a remarkable campaign so far.
Sales could certainly help that, though.
Sunderland make Anthony Patterson transfer call
With Sunderland having a big squad as it is ahead of any winter deals, exits for numerous fringe players will be required to accommodate any incomings.
Patterson has been strongly linked with a move away from Sunderland in January, as the 25-year-old has seen his starting role evaporate after the arrival of Robin Roefs this summer.
Alan Nixon has reported via Patreon that the Black Cats are now willing to sell Patterson this winter, despite loan interest also being present in the goalkeeper.
Championship trio Leicester City, QPR and Southampton have all been stated as being keen on signing Sunderland's academy graduate, but will now need to find the funds to meet his price tag.
The possibility of a swap deal has also been mooted.
Sunderland well placed to bag significant Patterson fee
Even though he is now Sunderland's backup goalkeeper, that doesn't mean they will simply gift him away in January.
Patterson is contracted at the Stadium of Light until the summer of 2028, meaning the Mackems are in a strong position to demand a premium price for him.
- Patterson has made 169 first-team appearances for Sunderland
- He's kept 51 clean sheets and conceded 189 goals in that time
- Patterson kept 14 clean sheets in the Championship last season, with a save percentage of 68.4 per cent
He's proven over the last few years that he's a top-class goalkeeper at Championship level, and established himself as one of the best in that division with Sunderland.
Therefore, with clubs now capable of spending big even in the second tier, Sunderland should still be able to bank a sizeable fee for Patterson this winter, with his contract status putting them in a strong position to do so.
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