Man Utd set to battle Spurs for Sunderland AFC transfer | OneFootball

Anthony Patterson is still believed to be of interest to the Red Devils, who are weighing up the option of address their goalkeeper department.

Manchester United have retained their interest in Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson.

This report from the Daily Mail comes after Sunday's revelation that Spurs were also interested in a move for the 24-year-old, who is continuing to impress at the Stadium of Light.

Patterson may have spent a chunk of the season out injured, but he has shown real promise again when he's played this season. And now he's back in action, he will have the opportunity to put himself in the shop window ahead of the January transfer window.

The Black Cats may have gone winless in their last six league games, but they are still in the promotion mix at this stage and may be keen to keep the vast majority of their first-team squad together.

However, questions over Patterson's future have emerged, with the player being linked with numerous top-flight teams in recent months.

Liverpool have also been linked with the shot-stopper this season, along with Crystal Palace, but it remains to be seen whether either club will end up making an approach for him when the January window opens.

The Black Cats, meanwhile, are facing the possibility of losing some other key first-teamers in the next window or two, with Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg unlikely to be short of interest from other clubs next year.

Rigg has been particularly impressive at times this season, though the Wearside outfit are in a strong negotiating position, having tied him down to a long-term deal this year.

Manchester United stance becomes clearer on Anthony Patterson

According to the Daily Mail, the Red Devils are on the prowl for a younger alternative to Tom Heaton, and Patterson could end up being the man that replaces him, with United retaining their interest in him.

United are also assessing their current squad options in case Altay Bayindir leaves Old Trafford during the January window, with the player keen to secure more first-team football.

It's believed that the Premier League giants would be keen to wait until the end of the season to let go of him before recruiting a replacement, but they are thought to be ready to move next month if he does depart.

Sunderland should look to retain Anthony Patterson

Letting your first-choice stopper leave midway through the season is never the best choice, unless they have been underperforming for some time.

Patterson certainly hasn't underperformed, with the player continuing to impress.

His contract doesn't expire until the summer of 2028, so there's no need to let go of him at this stage.

And especially at a time when the club is competing for promotion, it would be unwise to let him go.