Celtic will be in the market for a new goalkeeper this summer with Joe Hart announcing his retirement at the end of the season – and Brendan Rodgers is keen on another Englishman between the sticks.
Hart, who turns 37 today, has been a wonderful signing for Celtic. Taken to Celtic by Ange Postecoglou from Tottenham – who is ironically, now Spurs boss – he has since played 146 times north of the border.
He will need a replacement. A report from Sunderland Echo claims that Rodgers is looking down south and at a potential move for England U21 stopper Anthony Patterson – who is impressing at Sunderland.
Breaking into the side through the academy, Patterson has now played 121 times at senior level for the Black Cats. In that time, Sunderland have only conceded 141 goals – Patterson keeping 37 clean sheets.
Celtic rival Liverpool and Arsenal for Anthony Patterson
That form has caught the eye of Rodgers north of the border, as Celtic look to bring in a new no.1 with a Champions League campaign on the horizon. They face huge competition from one of Rodgers’ old sides.
Indeed, Liverpool want Patterson – with Caoimhin Kelleher likely to look for pastures new. The Ireland ace has been excellent but with Alisson was fit, he reverted to the bench. Kasey Keller said he should leave.
Arsenal are also keen on Patterson – who is rated at a fee between £10m and £20m. Sunderland seem aware of the inevitable this summer but they will be desperate to rake in as much cash as possible.
Celtic would be Patterson’s best move, but there is a problem
For Arsenal, Aaron Ramsdale is also likely to be leaving The Emirates. It is claimed that the England star is interested in a move to Newcastle – with Eddie Howe’s side keen on doing a deal. He needs replacing.
Patterson is on the radar of all three sides. At Celtic, he would be no.1 and get Champions League football next term. But Celtic do not have the cash of Arsenal and Liverpool. An eight-figure fee is very expensive.
At Arsenal and Liverpool, he would be much more affordable. But the chances are that he would only play in cup competition and might be lucky to play 10 times a season. Big decision for the “amazing” talent.
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