Liverpool is reportedly eyeing Sunderland’s rising talent, Chris Rigg, with several top European clubs closely monitoring the midfielder’s progress. The 16-year-old prodigy made his debut for the Black Cats under former manager Tony Mowbray at the age of 15 in December 2022, and has since made ten more appearances for the North-East club. Notably, Rigg etched his name in Sunderland’s history by becoming the youngest-ever goalscorer for the club at just 16 years and 51 days, finding the net in an EFL Cup clash against Crewe Alexandra in August.
Rigg’s stellar performances have also caught the attention of England’s youth setup, with the midfielder now representing the Three Lions’ Under-18s side, earning three caps since September. The Sunderland Echo reports that Liverpool is eager to secure Rigg’s services in the future, with Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea also expressing interest. Additionally, Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are reportedly monitoring Rigg’s development, potentially offering him the chance to join fellow Englishmen Harry Kane and Eric Dier in Bavaria.
Despite the allure of top European clubs, Rigg remains content at the Stadium of Light, prioritizing regular first-team football under Michael Beale’s guidance over a lucrative transfer. While Rigg has featured in seven Championship matches during the 2023-24 season, he is yet to secure a starting spot in the league, with his lone starting appearance coming in the EFL Cup. However, Mowbray, now with Birmingham City, is keen on bringing the talented midfielder to his new club, fueled by ambitions of Premier League promotion under ambitious American ownership.
Although Rigg is ineligible to sign professional terms at Sunderland due to his age, it’s understood that both the player and the club have reached a verbal agreement regarding a future deal. Rigg inked a two-year scholarship deal with the Black Cats ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, implying that he could move to another club if a suitable fee is agreed upon. Following a brief cameo in Sunderland’s recent victory over Stoke City, Rigg will be eager for more first-team opportunities as Sunderland prepares to host Plymouth Argyle on Saturday afternoon.