Patterson heading to Serie A as Everton finalizes Torino deal
Everton and Torino have agreed terms for the permanent transfer of Scotland defender Nathan Patterson, who is now traveling for a medical. The 24-year-old will sign a three-year contract with the Italian club, while Everton will retain a significant sell-on clause. Patterson, who made only nine appearances last season due to injury, has been limited to one cup outing this term.
Patterson's move ends a difficult spell at Goodison Park, where he arrived from Rangers in 2022 but never fully established himself. A muscle injury derailed much of last season, limiting him to nine appearances, and he has fallen behind converted midfielder Merlin Rohl in the right-back pecking order this term. His only outing this campaign came in the EFL Cup against Preston.
The defender remains a regular for Scotland, having earned 29 caps and featured three times at the recent World Cup. Everton's willingness to include a substantial sell-on clause suggests they still value his long-term potential. The transfer also clears a path for Kenny Tete, who is expected to join from Fulham as the club reshapes its defensive options.
This transfer could signal a broader pattern of Premier League clubs offloading squad players to Serie A as they balance financial regulations and squad depth. For Patterson, the move may offer a fresh start after injury setbacks, potentially reviving his international prospects. Everton supporters may view the deal pragmatically, as it frees wages and a roster spot while retaining future financial upside through the sell-on clause. Torino, meanwhile, could benefit from acquiring an experienced international at a relatively young age, though his recent injury record may carry some risk for the Italian side.