Sunderland want Aaron Ramsdale as Southampton look to break even on the England shot-stopper
TBR Football chief correspondent
Graeme Bailey understands that Sunderland have turned their attention to England goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale to become their new number one.
As previously confirmed by TBR Football, Regis Le Bris is keen to replace Anthony Patterson, with Ramsdale regarded as a viable successor to the Sunderland-born goalkeeper.
We understand Sunderland are stepping up their efforts on Ramsdale and they have already had contact with his representatives, who in principle have confirmed he is open to moving to the North East.
Ramsdale is eager to remain in the Premier League this season to consolidate any chances of an England call-up, and Southampton have agreed to let him leave.
We also understand that the Saints are not opposed to a loan move for the goalkeeper, which is of interest to Rangers, whilst Leeds United have also shown interest in Ramsdale.
We can confirm that Sunderland are readying an opening offer which is going to be close to Southampton’s current asking price. The Saints want the £25million they paid Arsenal for Ramsdale last summer to break even.
Ramsdale suffered relegation with Southampton last season, where he conceded 66 goals in 30 appearances.
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Aaron Ramsdale’s Premier League record may worry Sunderland fans
On paper, the potential acquisition of Aaron Ramsdale looks like a shrewd deal by Sunderland for a five-cap England man who is still just 27 years old.
However, Ramsdale has struggled previously in the Premier League, having suffered three relegations for separate clubs.
Ramsdale has dropped down to the Championship with Sheffield United, Bournemouth, and most recently Southampton – a feat that Sunderland fans will hope is not repeated once again.
A fee in the region of £25m is also a significant outlay for a goalkeeper whose side has just finished rock-bottom of the Premier League.
Ramsdale’s quality is clear to see, especially from his stint at Arsenal; however, Regis Le Bris will need to ensure that he can restore the confidence of the goalkeeper in order to make him an upgrade on Anthony Patterson.