North East reporter for The Daily Mail Craig Hope says that Newcastle United are 'very keen' on signing Sunderland central midfield gem Chris Rigg.

The Lowdown: One for the future

15-year-old Rigg is a player for the future, having captained England at youth level with the U16s, and played 15 times for Sunderland's youth teams, scoring two goals and making a further four assists (Transfermarkt).

Lauded for his ‘frightening ability’ to turn defenders inside out and score wonder goals by football insiders, he is regarded by local scouts as one of the best players around the whole of the UK at his age group (The Chronicle), and so looks sure to make his mark in English football over the next few years.

The Latest: Newcastle interest

Taking to Twitter on Saturday night, Hope said that Rigg is in the Black Cats' senior squad for their game away at Blackpool in the Championship this afternoon, and Newcastle are 'very keen' on signing him:

"I’m hearing Chris Rigg (15) & Tom Watson (16) are in Sunderland’s squad for tomorrow’s game at Blackpool. Both are England youth internationals & highly sought after. Newcastle very keen on Rigg."

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The Verdict: Get it done

After the signing of young Australian talent Garang Kuol, the Tynesiders look to be building a core group of starlets who can eventually play their way into the first team at St. James' Park.

Rigg is clearly a very talented player, and his first call-up to Sunderland's senior squad at just 15 years of age further emphasises that.

Nonetheless, signing him from their fellow North East rivals would give extra bragging rights to the Toon Army, should the Englishman grow into a star at the Magpies.