In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Manchester City are set to rival Liverpool for Sunderland keeper Anthony Patterson. It has been stated that the Mancunian club have identified the English keeper as a target and could sign him if they end up losing Ederson this summer.
Patterson’s Impressive Form In The EFL Championship Last Season
Patterson experienced a solid campaign at the Stadium of Light as he put in a series of impressive displays in goal for Sunderland recently. The 24-year-old made 46 appearances for the English club last season, conceding 55 goals and earning 13 clean sheets in the process across various competitions.
The English talent did well to average 0.6 clearances and 4.0 long balls per game in the EFL Championship. He even distributed possession relatively well after completing 75.1% of his attempted passes in the English second tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Sunderland will expire in the summer of 2028 which could make it tough for Man City to land him on a cut-price deal later this year.
Should Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola Recruit Patterson?
Patterson can be a safe pair of hands in between the sticks when he is playing with confidence on the field. He is a good handler of the ball and doesn’t mind clearing his lines when the opposition are on the offensive.
The English sensation can use his quick reflexes to make a few impressive saves at the back. However, he is still unproven at the highest level and would need time to settle into life in the Premier League if Man City manage to snap him up this summer.
Patterson would add more quality and depth to Pep Guardiola’s goalkeeping department. He is more than capable of challenging Stefan Ortega for a regular starting spot at the Etihad Stadium in the coming seasons.
At 24, Patterson has got his peak years ahead of him. Hence, he would be a great signing for Man City in the long run. All in all, Guardiola would be wise to try everything in his power to recruit him, especially if he ends up losing Ederson before the end of this summer transfer period.