Sunderland have reportedly agreed a deal with Wrexham which will see the Lads net £8 million for the Academy of Light graduate Anthony Patterson. If and when this goes through, Sunderland will say goodbye to one of their own, a goalkeeper who came through at our lowest ebb and has been there through the good, the bad, the ugly and, ultimately, the revival.
What happened?
Anthony Patterson's departure marks the end of an era for the Sunderland goalkeeper, who came through the Academy of Light and played a crucial role in the club's revival. The Lads have reportedly agreed a £8m deal with Wrexham, which will see Patterson leave the club.
Why it matters for Sunderland
Patterson's departure is a significant loss for the club, who will miss his experience and leadership in goal. However, the £8m transfer fee is a welcome boost for the Sunderland coffers, and will help the club to strengthen their squad in the coming transfer window.
What comes next?
Sunderland fans will be sad to see Patterson go, but they will be excited to see what the future holds for the club. With the £8m transfer fee, the Lads will be able to strengthen their squad and push for a top-half finish in the Premier League.
As of 11 August 2026, Sunderland are currently 7th in the Premier League, with 54 points from 38 games. They have scored 42 goals and conceded 48, with a goal difference of -6. They are 31 points behind leaders Arsenal and are on a 3-game winning run, with a recent form of 3W-2D-0L.
Sunderland's last result was a 2-1 win over Chelsea on 24 May 2026, and they are currently without Nordi Mukiele and Omar Alderete due to injury.
The scene: Wembley. The opponent: Sheffield United. Patterson showed his ability about 30 seconds into the game with a brilliant save to deny Kieffer Moore. More fantastic goalkeeping in the second half denied Andre Brooks after a Dennis Cirkin error. The famous comeback sealed it and Patterson once again made his mark on the biggest stage in England, helping to guide his boyhood club back to the Premier League and confirming his status as a modern-day Sunderland great.
Thanks to Robin Roefs and his amazing form last season, we didn't get to see Patterson turn out for the Lads in the Premier League, but he more than played his part in getting us there, and will move on with the best wishes of everyone at the club and everyone who follows the club. Whatever comes next for Patto, Sunderland fans should remember what he gave the club, rather than the odd mistake he received pelters for. Remember the kid who came through at our lowest ebb and has been there through the good, the bad, the ugly and, ultimately, the revival.
