- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands Arsenal and Liverpool were both represented at Sunderland’s game at the weekend as they continued to keep tabs on the progress of Anthony Patterson.
The two Premier League giants had scouts present at the Stadium of Light as Patterson kept a clean-sheet as Sunderland played out a goalless draw with Bristol City in the Championship.
HITC revealed in January that highly-rated goalkeeper Patterson was on the radar of a host of clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool.
Both clubs are understood to be looking at options for their number two goalkeeper, and homegrown Patterson is a major appeal to them.
HITC has previously stated Arsenal are set to sell England international goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale this summer after he dropped behind David Raya in the pecking order at The Emirates. The Gunners are due to make Raya’s loan deal from Brentford permanent at the end of the season.
Liverpool could be looking at new number two
We have also confirmed that Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher could be allowed to leave Anfield, as he is ready to become a number one.
Alisson is the number one goalkeeper at Liverpool. When fit and available, the Brazil international starts and given he has a contract until 2027 – that will not be changing anytime soon.
Patterson is now emerging as a real option for both Arsenal and Liverpool, if they do move for a new number two.
Patterson is one of the best goalkeepers in the Championship and is rated very highly, and despite only being 23 already has over 130 starts to his name.
Former boss tips Patterson to have huge future ahead of him
Former Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray, who is now in charge of Birmingham, was glowing about Patterson during his time at the Stadium of Light.
“He is a very unassuming kid and he keeps himself to himself. What is fantastic is he keeps the ball out of the net. He is a big framed goalie but he uses his frame fantastically well,” Mowbray said.
“He has got a personality that is good for a goalkeeper. He’s not up bouncing around all of the time. He’s calm, assured and relaxes the back line. He does his job.
“He wants to learn. As his confidence grows, he has got a huge future in front of him.”
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