Sunderland’s Chris Rigg is wanted by Man United and Real Madrid. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Sunderland talent Chris Rigg, 17, is a name that is beginning to be heard among Europe’s biggest clubs as several continue to monitor the youngster’s progress in the Championship.
The midfielder has established himself as a key player in Regis Le Bris’ side and has played a big part in Sunderland’s impressive start to the season as the Black Cats sit top of the Championship after 14 games.
Rigg has played in 13 of those games, producing three goals from midfieldwhich follows his great season last time out, in which he scored his first two goals in the Championship.
Rigg has a contract at the Stadium of Light until 2027 and is heading into the 2025 transfer window, sources have said. Caught offside that Sunderland are keen to keep hold of their 17-year-old talent as they push for promotion to the Premier League.
However, interest from several of Europe’s top clubs put the Black Cats in a difficult position to keep hold of the midfielder, as his departure could significantly affect Sunderland both on and off the pitch.
The Championship club will be looking for at least €30m for Rigg in 2025 and there are a number of clubs who could be willing to match the asking price.
Man United and Real Madrid have set their sights on Sunderland’s Chris Rigg
Man United have been the club most linked with Rigg in recent weeks with reports indicating that the Scouts from the Premier League giants have watched the 17-year-old almost ‘every week this season’.
The The Manchester club will face stiff competition in their pursuit of midfield talent as sources have claimed that a number of Premier League clubs are monitoring his progress, including: Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Brighton, Man City, Newcastle, Liverpool and Wolves.
There is also interest in English from abroad, which is the route Jude Bellingham took on his way to superstardom.
Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund are all believed to be interested in Rigg and a move to Germany could be exactly what the youngster needs to develop his game at the highest level.
