Sunderland: Leeds United link might put Patrick Roberts' future in severe doubt - View | OneFootball

Patrick Roberts has endured an extremely tough season at Sunderland, with the out-of-form winger only notching two goal contributions in 32 Championship games this year.

This summer could bring even worse news for the former Fulham youngster, with Sunderland reportedly one of a number of clubs looking to bring in Ian Poveda upon the expiry of his contract at Leeds United.

Poveda has enjoyed a decent second half of the season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, impressing as always with his technical ability on the ball.

Should he join the Black Cats this summer, there will likely be a fight between Poveda and Roberts for the right-wing position and the Colombian will feel he has an edge over someone who has struggled to prove himself this year, particularly if he's brought in this summer.

Patrick Roberts continues to underwhelm in 23/24

Having signed for Manchester City from Fulham in 2015 for a fee in the region of £11 million, Roberts was very much tipped to be the next hot prospect on the scene.

What followed was disappointing for Roberts. Despite the odd good loan spell, his seven years in Manchester never lived up to expectations, making only three first-team appearances overall.

Having joined Sunderland, Roberts would impress in his first 18 months at the club. Scoring a huge goal in a League One play-off semi-final against Sheffield Wednesday and performed superbly for Tony Mowbray's side last season as they finished in an impressive sixth place.

Despite this good form, Roberts has seemingly reverted to type again this year. A meager two assists in 1,850 minutes this season is not good enough for a player of his quality, and his lack of form was no more emphasised than in their final away fixture against Watford.

After receiving the ball with the goalmouth gaping, Roberts would trip up as he went to strike the ball into the net and the Hornets would clear their lines to secure a 1-0 win.

Interim head coach Mike Dodds has said this about the 27-year-old's season: "For whatever reason, this year hasn’t really gone to plan."

He added: "I expect a really big pre-season from Pat, and while I’m not saying I expect him to be new and improved, I do expect a Patrick Roberts who should be playing in the Premier League from next season.”

Leeds' Poveda could see Sunderland bid farewell to Roberts

In many ways, Ian Poveda is comparable to Roberts. Having originally been at Manchester City, he was touted for huge things, but as with Roberts, it didn't work out for him at the Etihad.

Since his move to Elland Road, the Leeds faithful have always been expectant of the Colombian, but a lack of faith from management and game time for the winger will see him leave the club this summer.

Having performed admirably on loan, the Owls will likely be top of Poveda's list with several other clubs interested. But, should he join the youngest team in the division at Sunderland, they may be able to spark the winger into life.

This will be concerning for Roberts, who will feel Poveda could be a real threat to his time in the North East. Not only is their career path semi-similar, they are diminutive right-wingers looking to dart onto their left-foot; essentially the same player.

Despite Roberts ranking above the loanee for the majority of statistics, many will feel that Poveda's lack of game time has contributed to this.

Should the 24-year-old be given an opportunity at the Stadium of Light, it seems likely that he will return that faith and showcase the form that saw him become a star in Man City's youth ranks, particularly on the evidence of his Wednesday loan.

Three years his senior, Roberts also has the concern that the London-born player represents someone who fits the more youthful strategy that the Sunderland board targets.

Time to cash in on Roberts

According to Keith Downie of Sky Sports, last summer saw Southampton table a £5 million bid for the Sunderland number 10. The Black Cats board rejected it and offered him a new contract worth £12,500 a week until the summer of 2026, where they have an option of an extension.

His form since signing the new deal will be a cause for concern and the possible arrival of Poveda may provide an opportunity to receive a significant fee for Roberts.

Celtic and Saints' interest may dwindle due to his poor form, but an approach from a different Championship club would be no surprise with his talent still there to be unlocked.

This summer will likely provide the answers to whether Roberts can confirm his place on Tyneside, or if he'll have to find a new home to prove his worth.