Arsenal and Liverpool are interested in signing Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson this summer, according to HITC.
Both first division The clubs recently sent scouts to watch Patterson in action against Bristol City at the weekend and will be impressed by what they saw as the 6ft 2in goalkeeper kept a clean sheet during the 0-0 draw.
Patterson has built a reputation as one of the best young goalkeepers in the country and HITC claim that Arsenal and Liverpool are among a host of top clubs showing a strong interest in his signature.
It will be interesting to see if they continue with a concrete proposal to sign Patterson in the summer, but Sunderland Echo suggests a bid of up to £20m could be necessary to reach a deal.
Arsenal have David Raya as their starting goalkeeper and have a capable backup in Aaron Ramsdale also. However, the Englishman is expected to leave in the summer due to lack of playing time.
Ramsdale needs to play regularly at this stage of his career and Arsenal will have to replace him appropriately. Patterson could be a quality number two for the Gunners if they decide to formalize their interest this summer.
Meanwhile, Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has been linked with a departure from the club. He has been outstanding in the absence of Alisson Becker, but the Republic of Ireland international needs to play regularly at this stage of his career in order to fulfill his tremendous potential.
Leaving Liverpool would be ideal for him as he is highly unlikely to play regularly when Alisson is available. Patterson could be a quality replacement for Kelleher if he leaves Anfield.
Patterson will be tempted to join
Both Arsenal and Liverpool would be interesting destinations for the young goalkeeper and he will be tempted to join either of them. A move to the Premier League will be a big step forward in his career and he will find it difficult to turn down big clubs like Arsenal or Liverpool.
The 23-year-old goalkeeper is highly valued in England and has a great future ahead of him. Joining a club like Arsenal or Liverpool could also improve his chances of playing for England in the coming years.
The goalkeeper has kept 12 clean sheets in the Championship this season and has a long-term contract with Sunderland until the summer of 2028.
