Manchester United emerge as favourites in race to sign Sunderland wonderkid Chris Rigg – report
Manchester United are reported to be the favourites in the race to sign 17-year-old Sunderland star Chris Rigg according to Sunderland AFC News, 31 October.
Chris Rigg has attracted interest on a daily basis due to his impressive performances at such a young age.
The talented teenager already has five Championship goals in his career, a tally that matches that set by Gareth Bale during his stint in the EFL.
The report from Sunderland AFC News reads: “Sources tell Sunderland AFC News that Manchester United are ‘favourites’ to sign the young talent right now, despite the club’s recent sacking of Erik ten Hag.
“Described to Sunderland AFC News as the ‘real diamond’ of the Championship right now, we’re also told that Sunderland ‘will likely have to’ part ways with Rigg in 2025, even if the club earns promotion from the Championship.
“Rigg though is keen to see the club be well compensated for his eventual transfer away from the Stadium of Light, and where he moves to will be his choice.”
How much could Sunderland bank from the sale of Chris Rigg?
With the constantly evolving finances in football, it is very hard to put a price tag on players. Although, Rigg will certainly reach the higher end of that.
Having made his first team debut at the age of 15, Rigg has been a constant in the Sunderland first team and cemented his place in the starting 11 under current head coach Regis Le Bris.
His performances have been outstanding and to consider he only turned 17 this year is mindblowing.
When the day comes that the Black Cats have to let Rigg go, they will bank what will likely be a club record fee.
Ironically, that record is currently held by the sale of another academy prospect in Jordan Pickford who joined Everton for a reported £30 million (Sky Sports).
Any Rigg sale would likely see the Black Cats pocket a minimum of £30 million although it is possible the club could get significantly more.
In other Sunderland news, Phil Smith has claimed that midfielder Jobe Bellingham could play European football as early as next season after an outstanding start to the campaign.
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