Why latest Chris Rigg contract announcement is quality move by Sunderland
Sunderland have completed some eye-catching transfers this year, but one of their best announcements involves Chris Rigg.
This summer has seen the Black Cats spend more than ever before, with Sunderland’s record-breaking transfer of Habib Diarra topping the list at the Stadium of Light.
However, the Wearsiders have also worked on deals to keep their own in the North East, with Luke O’Nien extending his stay at Sunderland.
Now, the club have made a significant announcement on teenage sensation Rigg, in what is an intelligent move by the North East outfit.
Chris Rigg signs new contract at Sunderland
Rigg has spoken about his admiration for Sunderland in the past, and that is now evident after the latest news.
The midfielder made his debut for the Wearsiders at the fledgling age of 15 in an FA Cup third round tie with Shrewsbury Town in 2023.
He almost became the youngest ever scorer in FA Cup history after netting against Fulham in the following round, only for it to be ruled out for offside.
- Youngest outfield player in Sunderland’s history
- Youngest goalscorer in the North East club’s history
- Youngest goalscorer in League Cup history
Rigg enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2024/25, becoming a regular fixture in Regis Le Bris’ first team.
The Hebburn-born star showcased his attacking nous, with his ability to break the lines, while wowing with a back-heeled goal against Middlesbrough.
While he is yet to start in the Premier League, he is now set to stay at the Stadium of Light until 2030 after Sunderland announced on 28 August that he has signed a fresh contract.
Read more: Tony Mowbray shares Sunderland ‘fear’ after what he’s seen at Stadium of Light
Why Chris Rigg contract is a clever move by the Black Cats
Last season, Rigg was linked with the likes of Manchester United and some of the very best clubs in Europe amid his rise.
Given the impact he was making at such a tender age, it was unsurprising that there were links with some of Europe’s elite.
Indeed, he is still just a teenager, and there is no knowing how high he will go, but his ceiling is immensely high.
Rigg made his Premier League debut against West Ham, making a one-minute cameo, and is likely to take a back seat this campaign.
- The teenager has already made 74 appearances for Sunderland
- Capped at five different youth levels by England
- He has made eight goal contributions so far for the Black Cats
However, he has time to grow and develop, and he is clearly aware that Wearside is the ideal place for him to fulfil his potential.
As it stands, the England under-19 international must be considered a prize asset, but his value is only going to increase.
In five years, there is no knowing how much he will be worth or what he will have achieved, but he could make the Black Cats an absolute killing.
Of course, the most important thing is that Rigg is now tied down as a Sunderland player, where he can continue to make history.
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