Sunderland prospect Chris Rigg has decided to sign a new long-term deal with the Black Cats, according to a report from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
England U17s captain Rigg was understood to have had many offers on the table this summer from multiple Premier League clubs including Newcastle United and Manchester United. The Nothern Echo revealed that Man United were the first to act, submitting a formal bid for the then-16-year-old back in May. However, it has now been revealed by Romano that the young forward has snubbed these offers in favour of signing a new professional three-year deal at the Stadium of Light.
Despite being only 17, the Englishman has established himself as a regular in matchday squads at Sunderland, featuring over 20 times in the Championship, whilst scoring two goals. Rigg is currently regarded by many as one of the most promising talents in the England and Sunderland youth set-up and was described by former boss manager Tony Mowbray as an “amazing kid”.
Speaking to the Sunderland Echo, Mowbray said this on the young sensation:
“I enjoy watching the careers of the players that I’ve worked with and Riggy is one where you are thinking to yourself, where is he going to be when I watch him in 10 years time and he’s 25, 26?
“In my opinion, undoubtedly at a top team in the Premier League if he keeps working like he does. Let’s hope that top team is Sunderland, competing to get into Europe.”
Now with new manager Regis Le Bris taking charge, Rigg will be hoping he can make the same impression he made on Mowbray.
Writer’s View
For Sunderland, Rigg deciding to stay at Wearside and accepting a new professional deal will undoubtedly act as a boost for the upcoming season. Described by Romano as a ‘big financial commitment’ for the club, manager Le Bris will be hoping that this commitment to the youngster will pay off.
With attacking players such as Bradley Dack and loanee Mason Burstow leaving the club, Sunderland may look to give the 17-year-old a larger role within the squad for next season.
Be the first to comment