Sunderland could lose more depth in their goalkeeping options this summer as an EFL side targets one of their young stars.
Regis Le Bris’ side saw a major shakeup in their lineup between the sticks upon their promotion to the Premier League, with Anthony Patterson dropped in favour of the incoming Robin Roefs, who has been a standout in the Black Cats’ successes this season.
The Dutchman’s addition has had impacts on Patterson and the rest of the goalkeeping options at the Stadium of Light, and one of those depth choices could leave in the summer.
Young Eyed By League One Hopefuls
According to Alan Nixon through his Patreon page, MK Dons are looking to sign Sunderland third choice Matty Young in the summer as they continue their progress under Paul Warne.
Young, who is currently on loan at the Dons’ League Two promotion rivals Salford City, is believed to be a key loan target for the Buckinghamshire club should they gain promotion to League One.
In his second spell with the Ammies, the 19-year-old has solidified himself as the first-choice option under Karl Robinson, having previously battled Jamie Jones last season for regular game time in the fourth tier.
This season, Young has kept eight clean sheets in 31 League Two matches and holds a 69.2% save percentage across all shots faced this season, as well as saving two of the five penalties he has faced.
MK Dons currently have Craig MacGillivray and Connal Trueman as their two senior goalkeeping choices this season, but could lose the former with his contract expiring at the end of this campaign.
Sign Of Progress For Sunderland
With Robin Roefs and later Melker Ellborg joining Sunderland this season, Matty Young has been pushed down the pecking order for Regis Le Bris’ squad at goalkeeper.
However, at just 19 years old, Young is by no means the finished article, and is beginning to see signs of progress with MK Dons now reported to be interested in helping him take the step up to League One.
A more than capable keeper in the fourth tier, now is the time to begin to push Young’s limits and test him in tougher divisions, and making good progress will certainly help his chances of becoming a future competitor for Roefs.
While Salford City has been a more than stable environment for him to develop, giving him opportunities at new clubs will be vital to check his progress before Sunderland assess their next steps.