Manchester United scouts won't take no for an answer on Sunderland prospect - report

Manchester United are intent on securing a move for Sunderland prospect Chris Rigg, according to HITC.

Graeme Bailey reported on 21 September that 17-year-old Rigg - who scored the Black Cats' deft winner in the Wear-Tees clash with Middlesbrough on Saturday - has been a target for United after the giants missed out on bringing Jude Bellingham to Old Trafford.

Sunderland have earned a reputation for progressing several exciting young players, including Bellingham's younger brother Jobe, Tommy Watson and Eliezer Mayenda.

According to Bailey, United have gone as far as to predict Rigg could be their next Bryan Robson or Roy Keane.

Manchester United want Sunderland youngster Chris Rigg

It's fair to say Rigg has taken the Championship by the scruff of its neck since bursting onto the scene as a boy.

The youngest outfield player in the history of Sunderland, Rigg made his senior debut aged 15 and became the Carabao Cup's youngest-ever goalscorer shortly after turning 16 at the beginning of last campaign.

He is fearless, strong in the tackle, dynamic and is already a key cog in Regis Le Bris' team - and he is adored by a fanbase who have easily overlooked his family's background as avid Newcastle United supporters.

Rigg twice gained the fans' love as he first signed a scholarship on Wearside last year to temporarily keep elite clubs from England and wider Europe at bay, before this summer penning his first professional contract, a three-year deal.

Manchester United however believe it remains only a matter of time before they can launch a concrete offer for Rigg, however, who has become the Black Cats' most prized possession.

In other Sunderland news, Wilson Isidor sends a public message after meeting supporters.

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