Rangers explore Anthony Patterson transfer, he's available for immediate move at Sunderland
Rangers are looking for a new goalkeeper, and their sights have landed on Sunderland shot-stopper Anthony Patterson.
Jack Butland has often come under intense scrutiny, with the Englishman guilty of making plenty of mistakes between the sticks.
As Danny Rohl looks to build a title-winning side, a new number one will likely be required at Ibrox for next season.
Patterson, who spent the second-half of the season at Millwall, is available to purchase from Sunderland.
And Rangers have reportedly wasted no time in exploring a transfer for the 26-year-old goalkeeper.
What has been said about Rangers' interest in Anthony Patterson
A new goalkeeper must arrive at Ibrox if Rangers are to push on and try to win trophies under Rohl, as Butland's time must be up in Glasgow.
Now, it appears that the Bears are fully aware of that circumstance, with links to Premier League goalkeeper Patterson.
| Anthony Patterson | Millwall - Championship 25-26 |
| Save percentage | 74% |
| Goals prevented | 1.67 |
| Clean sheets | 7 |
According to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie, Sunderland are open to selling Patterson in the summer window.
The Gers were among those interested, and the Glasgow club even went as far as exploring whether a deal could be hashed out.
However, the £8million price put on the shot-stopper appears to be more than Rangers are willing to pay for a new goalkeeper.
Patterson has plenty more options, with Wolves, Wrexham and Millwall being the other sides in for his signature.
Why Rangers are moving in the right direction with Patterson interest
Even if Rangers cannot ultimately come to an agreement to sign Patterson, they are shopping in the right market.
The Englishman was a key part of the Sunderland side that earned promotion to the Premier League, and when he went down to Millwall on loan, he further proved he had the qualities to be a difference maker.
In just 16 games, he kept seven clean sheets for the Lions. Across those games, he made zero errors and is good with his feet as well.
He has an 87 per cent passing accuracy inside his own half, according to Sofascore.
While Patterson may not be the next goalkeeper for Rangers, it is reassuring that the Bears are looking in his direction and wanting to sign a new goalkeeper itself.
Hopefully it will not be too long before a transfer is agreed for a new number one.