One major obstacle in Celtic’s alleged goalkeeping target

There is one major issue in a report saying Anthony Patterson would join Celtic in the summer from Sunderland.

A 23-year-old custodian who has been a constant presence in the English Championship for two seasons definitely has talent, but with a contract that runs until 2028, Sunderland will have the final say on any transfer.

Patterson’s age and England u-21 experience look to be compatible with Celtic’s transfer strategy, but when it comes to a fee, the story unravels.

During an interview with Football League World, Carlton Palmer casually threw in a fee that ensures Celtic’s interest is unlikely to evolve into a bid:

Celtic is a giant club, with a great manager in Brendan Rodgers, and they play in Europe. Of course, that would be something you couldn’t refuse. Celtic would have to pay between £15 and £20 million for Anthony Patterson, and I could see him leaving Sunderland to play in the Scottish Premiership before returning to the Premier League if he is still young enough.

Celtic signed seven players last summer for sums totaling roughly £15-20 million.

Maik Nawrocki was the most expensive signing, costing £4 million, while players such as Luis Palma and Gus Lagerbielke cost £3 million each.

Fans will be looking for a change in tactics this summer; a new custodian to replace Joe Hart is likely, but it would be a huge surprise if the £9 million record fee paid for Odsonne Edouard in 2018 is broken.

To view Patterson’s Transfermarkt profile, CLICK HERE.
To see Celtic’s paid transfer fees CLICK HERE.

In other news, Martin O’Neill Takes on Major New Role