Man Utd plotting shock transfer raid on Sunderland that could spell the end for Erik ten Hag signing
MANCHESTER UNITED are watching Sunderland keeper Anthony Patterson as they look for a new No 2.
The Red Devils want a young shot-stopper to understudy Andre Onana, and 24-year-old Patterson is firmly in their sights.
Former goalie Tony Coton, now United’s keeper scout, is checking out the Black Cats star as he fits the bill in every way.
Coach Erik ten Hag is firmly behind Onana as his first choice so Altay Bayindir, 26, has hardly had a chance and may move.
Bayindir has won ten caps for Turkey and faced Portugal at Euro 2024 — but his appearance in the 7-0 Carabao Cup win over Barnsley this month was only his second for United since joining in the summer of 2023.
Ten Hag is keen to have more competition for Onana.
Patterson has been linked with moves in the past but is yet to get the Premier League call and the England Under-21 cap may have to initially settle for being a reserve at a top-flight club.
Crystal Palace have also taken an interest in Patterson but can only offer a reserve role behind Dean Henderson.
Liverpool also shortlisted Patterson ahead of a possible exit for Republic of Ireland ace Caoimhin Kelleher, but that would be as cover again.
Sunderland price Patterson at around £20million but may take less.
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They will not want to lose him this season as they chase promotion, so a summer switch could be more likely.
Meanwhile, Birmingham are plotting a raid on Sunderland’s 17-year-old midfielder Chris Rigg.
Their American owners have splashed out since relegation to League One and could offer £10m.
Everton are also tracking Rigg who has been on their wish-list for a couple of years.