As Aaron Ramsdale edges closer to a summer exit, reports suggest the Gunners have identified Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson as a potential successor.

LEEDS, ENGLAND - APRIL 09: Patrick Bamford of Leeds United goes around the Sunderland goalkeeper, Anthony Patterson during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Sunderland at Elland Road on April 09, 2024 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND – APRIL 09: Patrick Bamford of Leeds United goes around the Sunderland goalkeeper, Anthony Patterson during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Sunderland at Elland Road on April 09, 2024 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

With Aaron Ramsdale‘s likely departure this summer, Arsenal are reportedly eyeing goalkeeping talent in the Championship. The Gunners’ interest in Sunderland‘s 23-year-old Anthony Patterson suggests they’re keen on finding a young successor.

Patterson has been impressive for Sunderland, catching the eye of both Arsenal and Liverpool. He would not immediately displace David Raya as Arsenal‘s number one, but would provide valuable backup and a potential long-term solution for Arsenal’s goalkeeping needs. His steady performances in the Championship suggest he’s ready for the step up to the Premier League.

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - MARCH 05: Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson is beaten by a header from Leicester striker Jamie Vardy for the first goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sunderland and Leicester City at Stadium of Light on March 05, 2024 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – MARCH 05: Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson is beaten by a header from Leicester striker Jamie Vardy for the first goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sunderland and Leicester City at Stadium of Light on March 05, 2024 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Sunderland, fighting for promotion, won’t want to lose one of their key players. However, the appeal of a hefty transfer fee could be tough to resist. If they do secure promotion, the temptation to sell Patterson and reinvest in their squad might become overwhelming.

Moving to Arsenal would be a massive step up for Patterson. He’d get to learn from an experienced international like Raya and work with a top-class coaching staff. While starting opportunities might be limited at first, Patterson could position himself to become Arsenal‘s future number one.

Ramsdale‘s inevitable departure creates a void, and the club seems determined to find a talented replacement who can provide both immediate depth and long-term stability in goal.