If a report from the Scottish Sun is believed to be true, the Merseyside giants Liverpool and Everton are set to rival each other for Rangers right-back Nathan Patterson. The Toffees have made the first move already a few days back, but a bid of around £5m has been knocked back by the Scottish champions.
Despite facing disciplinary action and suspension for breaching COVID-19 protocols, Patterson burst onto the scene last season during the injury absence of skipper James Tavernier. The young Scot featured 14 times across competition and his emergence earned him a place in Steve Clarke’s EURO 2020 squad.
The 19-year-old has appeared only once so far this term in a Cup outing against Dunfermline Athletic. Although he holds a bright future ahead of him, his progress has stalled due to the presence of Tavernier down the right-hand flank. The Englishman has his limitations in the defensive third, but the overlapping runs, pinpoint crosses, cut insides, link-up play and set-piece attributes had a massive influence in their Premiership triumph as well as commendable European run.
Why Rangers Must Retain The Services Of Patterson
Everton, meanwhile, are aiming for a long-term successor of 32-year-old Seamus Coleman. Mason Holgate and Ben Godfrey are only good as makeshifts, whereas Jonjoe Kenny is unlikely to stake a claim in Rafael Benitez’s plan following a dismal loan stint at Celtic. Patterson, thus, would challenge and cover the veteran Irishman week in week out and an improved offer might force the Gers to let the teenager leave considering their financial crisis.
Rangers have failed to make it to the group stages of the Champions League and the monetary loss could only be recouped from players’ sales. Liverpool, too, might take advantage of the situation, however, the minutes would be restricted even more with Trent Alexander-Arnold in fine form. Already Neco Williams’ progression is blocked because of the 22-year-old Three Lions sensation and a move to Anfield won’t do him any favour in terms of development and first-team football.
Having said that, Liverpool are one of the most exciting destinations for any youngster across the globe. He would flourish his skills further under the tutelage of Jurgen Klopp but, at the same time, should prioritize gametime over a high-profile transfer. The Bears are expected to play more than 60 games this season altogether and a player of Patterson’s potential should be retained at any cost with Tavernier set to be in his thirties in a couple of months’ time.
