November 22nd 2024.
Chris Rigg, a rising star in English football, has been making a name for himself at Sunderland this season. In just 14 games, the 17-year-old has scored three goals, catching the attention of top clubs like Manchester United.
United, who have been under new ownership since Sir Jim Ratcliffe's minority takeover, have been on the lookout for promising young talents. They have already secured the signings of 19-year-old Leny Yoro and 16-year-old Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal's academy over the summer.
But it seems that their sights are now set on Rigg, who has been on their radar since he was just 15 years old. The Red Devils are reportedly "seriously interested" in the attacking midfielder, but they are not the only ones. Crystal Palace, another Premier League club, is also said to be vying for his signature.
Despite his young age, Rigg has already established himself as a key player for Sunderland's first-team. He has been a standout performer for the Black Cats, helping them to the top of the Championship table. United, who considered making a bid for him last summer, were put on hold when Rigg signed a new three-year contract with his boyhood club.
It is believed that United will make a move for Rigg next summer, as they are not expected to make any big moves in the January transfer window. However, this could change if Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris can convince Rigg and his teammate Jobe Bellingham to stay at the club.
Le Bris, who has been impressed with Rigg's development, believes that it is important for young players to stay at a club until they feel they need a new challenge. He has also praised the club's culture and its impact on Rigg's growth as a player.
"I am sure other clubs are noticing the players we have, but it is better that way, it means you are doing well," Le Bris recently said. "They are very young, and they are playing very well. I think it is important for them to be here until the challenge is not high enough for them."
He further added, "Probably, when they feel that they need something more to develop, that should be the right moment to leave, but at the minute, for both players, I think they are still in the right zone for their career development. They need to play, and they need to learn. They need to learn about playing in a collective style, so for them, I think the culture we have here is still working for them. I think the graph of their learning is still going up at a good level."
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