Newcastle United are ready to launch a bid for Sunderland academy starlet Chris Rigg, according to Chronicle Live.

The Lowdown: Newcastle adding youngsters

Having added a number of big names to their squad this summer, the Magpies have also been working hard to scout and secure future first-team talents.

So far, Newcastle have pinched 18-year-old left-back Jordan Hackett from Tottenham, 19-year-old goalkeeper Jude Smith from East Fife and 18-year-old Alex Murphy from Galway United.

Taking this even further, the Tyneside club are now set to splash the cash on a 15-year-old talent from their local rivals.

The Latest: Newcastle want Rigg

According to Chronicle Live, Newcastle are now interested in making a move for Rigg after being long-term admirers of the midfielder, who is said to be from a family of Magpies fans.

As per reports, the Premier League club are prepared to pay £2.5m to sign the Sunderland teenager in January.

This follows reports in April which claimed that the Magpies were keen on signing the academy prospect from their rivals on Wearside, but they faced top-flight competition from Everton.

The Verdict: Huge prospect

At just 15 years of age, the player has already completed a full 90 minutes in Premier League 2 this season for Sunderland’s under-21s side.

Having also captained the England under-16 team last month, Rigg is clearly viewed as a huge talent amongst youth coaches across the country.

Therefore, it is no surprise to see journalist Josh Bunting claim that it is imperative for the Black Cats to keep hold of the ‘confident’ youngster in the academy, with the teenager seemingly destined for an illustrious career in senior football.

As such, whilst a £2.5m fee may appear steep for someone of such tender years, Rigg’s talent and potential is undeniable.