Rangers could cause problems as Nathan Patterson looks set to depart Everton.
The Scotland international has long been linked with an Ibrox return after his departure in 2022. He traded Govan for Merseyside four years ago, but things haven’t really gone to plan in the Premier League.
That has been showcased this campaign as David Moyes opted to hardly utilise the right-back across all competitions. A Goodison Park exit is now increasingly likely, with Rangers set to complicate a potential move for Patterson.
Rangers could stop Nathan Patterson joining Sheffield United
There is little reason for the defender to stick around after two difficult seasons. He has made fewer than 20 appearances in that time, having watched a vast majority of games from the sidelines.
That has seen natural centre-back Jake O’Brien feature on the right instead of Patterson. He now looks set to leave Everton, with The Star reporting on Friday that Sheffield United are interested in his signature. Should the Blades follow that up with a bid, there is one potential complication surrounding Rangers.
If the Ibrox club are to make their own move, it could make things difficult for the English Championship side.
Why a move for familiar face Patterson makes sense right now
There is certainly need for a new right-back option in Govan right now after the departure of James Tavernier. The skipper was hardly given the ideal send off by Danny Rohl, but that won’t stop his exit from going through.
He won’t be easy to replace this summer after so many years as a true talisman at Ibrox. The best course of action may well be to bring in a familiar face in Patterson after many years away from G51.
That won’t spell good news for Sheffield United, but with complications already mooted by the Gers, it seems as if they would lead the race if they wanted to physicalise their interest.
Expanding on the saga
Nathan Patterson’s journey from Rangers prodigy to Everton fringe player has been one of unfulfilled potential. Signed by the Toffees in a £12 million deal in January 2022, the then-20-year-old arrived with huge expectations. He had burst onto the scene at Rangers under Steven Gerrard, helping the club secure the Scottish Premiership title in 2021 and earning his first Scotland caps.
However, life in the Premier League has proven far tougher. Injuries, intense competition, and tactical shifts have limited his opportunities. Under Sean Dyche and now David Moyes, Patterson has struggled to establish himself as the first-choice right-back. This season, his appearances have been sporadic at best, with the versatile Jake O’Brien often preferred on the right side of defence.
At just 24 years old, Patterson still possesses the attributes that made him so promising: blistering pace, excellent crossing ability, and a strong defensive work rate. For a player of his age and international pedigree, regular first-team football is essential. A return to Rangers, where he knows the system, the fans, and the expectations, could reignite his career.
Everton’s Situation and Departure Likelihood
Everton, under new ownership stability but still navigating financial constraints, are expected to trim their squad this summer. With Moyes focusing on a more compact and experienced defensive unit, younger players like Patterson who have failed to break through may be moved on to generate funds and free up wages.
Goodison Park has not been the dream destination Patterson hoped for. Limited starts in the Premier League and minimal involvement in cup competitions have left him frustrated. Sources close to the player suggest he is keen for a fresh start where he can play regularly and prove his worth once more on the big stage.
Whether that stage is the Championship with Sheffield United or a return to the Scottish Premiership with Rangers remains to be seen. Everton will likely demand a fee in the region of £8-10 million to recoup some of their investment, though a loan with an option to buy could also be on the table.
Rangers’ Need for a Right-Back
Rangers are undergoing significant changes this summer. The departure of club captain James Tavernier marks the end of an era. Tavernier, who made over 500 appearances for the club, was a goal-scoring machine from right-back and a leader in the dressing room. Replacing him will not be straightforward.
Manager Philippe Clement (or his successor, depending on ongoing speculation) will be looking for experience and quality to fill that void. Patterson fits the bill perfectly. Having come through the Rangers academy and already proven himself at Ibrox, he would require minimal adaptation time. His knowledge of the league, the rivalries, and the high-pressure environment at Rangers would make him an instant asset.
Moreover, Rangers’ European ambitions mean they need a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. A reliable right-back who can contribute both defensively and in attack is crucial. Patterson’s set-piece delivery and overlapping runs were hallmarks of his early career at the club — traits that could once again shine under the lights at Ibrox.
Sheffield United’s Interest and the Complication
Sheffield United’s reported interest makes perfect sense. Newly relegated to the Championship, the Blades are looking to bounce back at the first attempt. They have a solid core but need reinforcements in key positions. Patterson’s Premier League experience, even if limited, would be highly valued at Bramall Lane.
However, Rangers entering the fray throws a significant spanner in the works. As a Scottish club, Rangers can offer Patterson a return home, regular football, and the chance to play in European competitions if they qualify. For a player with strong ties to the club and the country, this emotional pull could outweigh a move south to the Championship.
Financially, Rangers may not be able to match Premier League wages, but with add-ons, performance bonuses, and the potential for a higher base salary in Scotland relative to his current bench role, the deal could be made attractive. Rangers fans would undoubtedly welcome Patterson back with open arms, seeing him as a homegrown talent returning to the fold.
Fan Reactions and Broader Implications
Rangers supporters have already begun discussing the possibility on social media and fan forums. Many view Patterson as a “what if” story — a player who left too soon and could now come back stronger. “Bring him home” has become a popular sentiment among the Ibrox faithful.
Everton fans, on the other hand, are largely resigned to his departure. While some appreciated his attitude when given chances, the consensus is that he never quite lived up to the hype. Sheffield United supporters are excited by the prospect but wary of a bidding war or personal terms issues.
Beyond the immediate transfer, this story highlights the challenges faced by young British talents moving to the Premier League. Not every player thrives immediately, and sometimes a return to familiar surroundings is the best medicine for a stalled career.
As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Nathan Patterson. Will he return to Rangers and help rebuild the right-back position? Or will Sheffield United secure his signature and add Premier League-proven quality to their promotion push? Rangers’ potential involvement has certainly added intrigue to what could have been a straightforward deal.
Whatever the outcome, Patterson’s next move will be pivotal for his development. At 24, he still has his best years ahead of him. Whether in Glasgow or South Yorkshire, regular starts and a supportive environment will be key to unlocking his full potential.
Rangers throwing their hat into the ring could ultimately benefit the player most — giving him options and forcing clubs to move decisively. The coming weeks promise to be fascinating as this transfer saga unfolds.
