The January transfer window can be an exciting time, but it could be a worrying period for Sunderland as they desperately cling onto their best players.
After a strong start to the season, Sunderland looked destined for a surprise return to the Premier League in Regis Le Bris’ first year with the club.
However, the Black Cats have suffered a drastic dip in form of late and are now without a win in six matches, leaving them fourth in the Championship table.
We already know that Le Bris is putting an emphasis on developing young talent when it comes to his January plans, but that could all be derailed as rumours swirl surrounding one of his key players.
Anthony Patterson is a target for Manchester United
It would seem Sunderland are going to have a big fight on their hands to keep hold of their number one goalkeeper, Anthony Patterson.
According to the latest from the Daily Mail, Manchester United are keen to take a look at their roster of goalkeepers in the New Year, with current number two, Altay Bayindir, thought to be on his way out of Old Trafford.
As a result, United are looking to bring in a younger alternative to Tom Heaton, and have identified Sunderland stopper Patterson as an option. It is believed the Red Devils are keeping tabs on the 24-year-old in the run up to January.
We know Tottenham Hotspur have also targeted Anthony Patterson as a potential solution to their goalkeeping issues, with Guglielmo Vicario currently out injured.
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Sunderland have big decision to make if Anthony Patterson leaves
Sunderland rely on the ‘unbelievable’ Patterson so much, and if he were to depart in January it would leave a huge hole in Le Bris’ squad.
Whether Simon Moore and Blondy Nna Noukeu would be deemed strong enough to take over between the sticks for the second half of the campaign is up for debate, and Sunderland may end up looking at the market for a new goalkeeper themselves.
However, one Sunderland star out on loan could be the answer. Matty Young has just begun to excel at Salford after being given the chance to shine in the FA Cup, and the 18-year-old made an impressive league debut on Tuesday night, too.