Report: Sunderland are keen on loan deal for Nathan Baxter

By Mathew Nash

Sunderland’s hunt for a new goalkeeper may have taken them to Chelsea, according to a report from the London Evening Standard. 

Sunderland need a new stopper following the departure of Jon McLaughlin this summer. Lee Burge is now the only proven stopper at the Stadium of Light and reports have linked the Black Cats with several names. 

One option appears to be Matija Sarkic, who has recently joined Wolves after his release by Aston Villa. Former Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Remi Matthews, who worked with Phil Parkinson at The Trotters is also a potential option, according to the Sunderland Echo.

But Chelsea youngster Nathan Baxter has also climbed into the frame, with the Premier League side desperate for the talented stopper to get some more experience in the Football League. 

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JANUARY 25:  (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

The 21-year-old has previously spent time on loan with the likes of Metropolitan Police, Solihull moors, Woking and Yeovil Town. All were impressive. As reported by Goal, Baxter was player of the year at Woking whilst his spell at Yeovil began with a record-breaking six consecutive clean sheets and a stint of 10 hours and 12 minutes without conceding.

Last season he was with Scottish Premiership side Ross County, where he impressed despite suffering a serious shoulder injury. 

Baxter, who told Goal in 2018 that he tries ‘to copy’ his goalkeeping hero Petr Cech, would undoubtedly be an exciting addition for Sunderland and a perfect replacement for McLaughlin between the sticks at the Stadium of Light. 

However, Derby and Birmingham City are also said to be keen, meaning Sunderland might have a battle on their hands to secure the youngster’s services.