Wrexham close to signing Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson

Wrexham are on the verge of signing Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. According to BBC Sport, Patterson could be available for Wrexham's Championship opening match against Cardiff City on 17 August, subject to a medical. Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson, who previously managed Sunderland, has been keen to strengthen his goalkeeping options and is now close to securing the 26-year-old. Patterson's arrival could lead to the departure of Nigerian goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who is entering the final year of his contract, while Welsh goalkeeper Danny Ward is also in the final year of his deal. Patterson is a product of the Sunderland academy and made his senior debut in the 2020-21 season. He helped Sunderland achieve promotion from League One via the play-offs following a loan spell at Notts County. Last season, he made one appearance for Sunderland before spending the second half of the campaign on loan at Millwall, where he played 16 times. He has made 169 official appearances for Sunderland to date. Patterson was on the bench for Sunderland during their 1-0 pre-season friendly win against Wrexham in Philadelphia on 2 August. Wrexham have already signed defender Danny Imrie and midfielder Ben Whitfield this summer. However, following a 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough in the first round of the Carabao Cup, Parkinson stated that the squad still requires further additions, noting that the club is working tirelessly to strengthen the team for a highly competitive division.