Millwall Football Club have missed out on signing Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson after Wrexham agreed an £8m fee for the 26-year-old. The Lions had shown interest in the keeper, who spent the second half of last season on loan at The Den, but will now look elsewhere for a new number one.
What happened in the transfer race?
Patterson emerged as a target for Millwall after his impressive loan spell helped the club reach the Championship play-offs. However, Wrexham moved swiftly to secure the England U21 international, agreeing an £8m deal with Sunderland. The keeper is now set to undergo a medical with the Welsh outfit, leaving Millwall to reassess their options.
Why Patterson was a key target for Millwall
The Lions finished third in the Championship last season with 83 points (24W-11D-11L), scoring 64 goals and conceding 49. Patterson’s arrival could have strengthened their title push, as they finished 12 points behind leaders Coventry. His steady performances after joining in January earned praise from fans, despite a rare error in the play-off semi-final.
What comes next for Millwall?
With Patterson now heading to Wrexham, Millwall must turn their attention to other targets. Manager Neil Harris will need to identify a new goalkeeper before the transfer window closes, with the new Championship season set to begin soon. The Lions will be hoping to build on last season’s success and mount another title challenge.
