Man City winger Roberts linked with loan move

Scott Anderson
Patrick Roberts: Heading north

Manchester City are prepared to let Patrick Roberts head out on loan to get more Premier League experience, according to reports. 

Sunderland and Bournemouth are both said to be interested in the England Under-19 international, who moved to the Etihad Stadium from Fulham in an £12million move last summer.

Roberts made his debut last September in a 4-1 League Cup win over Sunderland, but has not featured for the Premier League title challengers since.

City come up against Everton tomorrow in a crucial Premier League clash tomorrow evening, but Roberts has struggled to establish himself as a first-team player since his arrival in Manchester.

Reports now suggest City are willing to let the 18-year-old out on loan to gain vital first-team experience.

Roberts has scored five goals in 12 appearances for England Under-19s and has been recognised as a rising young talent.

The move could potentially benefit either Sunderland or Bournemouth, who are both fighting for their Premier League safety.

Sunderland, who are currently 19th in the Premier League, come up against Swansea at the Liberty Stadium tomorrow.

The Black Cats have already added Bayern Munich defender Jan Kirchhoff and Senegal striker Dame N’Doye to their squad this month, but are looking for new recruits to help guide them to safety.

Meanwhile 16th-placed Bournemouth, who welcome West Ham to Adams Park this evening, have splashed £19million this week by completing the signings of record-transfer Benik Afobe and Norwich forward Lewis Grabban.