Rigg set to join elite Premier League group as Sunderland take action
Chris Rigg could be in line to play a crucial role for Sunderland next season.
Over the last few seasons, Sunderland‘s success has been built on their approach to youth, and it has been no different for Rigg.
The teenager featured regularly for the Black Cats last season, though with the number of additions in midfield so far this summer, the occasional question has emerged as to just how big of a role he would play in the Premier League.
With that said, those questions look set to be answered, as Sunderland prepare to offer him a new contract.
Everton keeping an eye on Rigg development
Sunderland did well to retain the services of Rigg last season, though it became pretty apparent that a failure to get promoted would almost certainly end with his departure.
Thankfully, that wasn’t the case, though Sunderland still face a battle when it comes to tying him down to a new contract.
| Rigg’s 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances (starts) | 42 (36) |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Touches | 38 |
| Accurate passes | 18.8 (79%) |
| Tackles per game | 1.2 |
According to the Sun on Sunday (13 July, pg59), Sunderland are prepared to offer Rigg a new deal that would see him become one of the highest-paid teenagers in top-flight football.
His current wage is believed to earn him around £20,000 per week, with a new deal potentially doubling those wages, showcasing that he will be more than just a bit-part player next season.
Everton are among the clubs keeping an eye on his future, though it looks set to be on Wearside.
Sunderland need to keep Rigg
Rigg will play for England in the future and will almost certainly have a career at a top level in football.
However, for his development and for the same of Sunderland, staying at the Stadium of Light will be crucial for the next few seasons, though the Black Cats will have to fend off interest from plenty of European clubs to keep him.
After losing Jobe Bellingham to Dortmund and Tom Watson to Brighton, Sunderland simply cannot afford to lose another talented teenager.
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