Sunderland are now in danger of losing 15-year-old academy star Chris Rigg to bitter rivals Newcastle United as the Tyneside club eye a January swoop for the Black Cats teenager, according to Chronicle Live.
The Lowdown: Previous interest
The Magpies’ interested in Rigg was first reported in April, and they wanted to do a deal worth around £1m to secure the midfielder’s services.
The academy talent comes from a family of Newcastle fans, making this rare transfer saga all the more difficult to endure for the Sunderland faithful.
It was also believed that Everton were interested in the youngster, but Eddie Howe’s side were touted as the favourites to land him.
The Latest: Newcastle interested in Rigg
According to Chronicle Live on Sunday, Newcastle are interested in making a move for Sunderland starlet Rigg.
It is suggested the Magpies are willing to splash out around £2.5m on the 15-year-old, following on from Newcastle having appointed former Sunderland employee Elliot Dickman as their under-23 coach last October.
Everton are once again deemed with interest, but it is thought that the Toon are likely to outbid the Merseyside club.
Rigg is unable to sign a professional deal with Sunderland until he is 17.
The Verdict: Huge loss
At just 15 years of age, Rigg has already been introduced to more senior football. The midfielder played 90 minutes for Sunderland under-21s in Premier League 2 against Norwich City last month, impressing in the middle of the park.
He also captained the England under-16 team last month as they faced Italy in an international friendly.
Is Tony Mowbray a good appointment for Sunderland?
Yes
No
Sunderland-supporting journalist Josh Bunting has been incredibly impressed by the youngster, having taken to Twitter last month to hail his praises, saying: “15 years of age and Chris Rigg is really impressing for Sunderland at 21’s level this afternoon. Making things happen, lovely and comfortable on the ball and confident at driving at the opposition. He is a key player to keep, can’t lose players like him at this stage #SAFC.”
Therefore, the Black Cats should do all they can to keep hold of the teenage sensation, especially with their arch-rivals lurking.
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