Sunderland face competition from Champions League finalists to keep hold of their young ‘whizz kid’.
Despite their struggles over the last decade, Sunderland have often been credited for their brilliant academy by fans.
During their decline in the Premier League, the Black Cats produced the likes of Jordan Henderson, Jordan Pickford and Josh Maja, who eventually left the club for a combined total of over £43 million.
Their academy success has continued follow their exit from the top flight, with the likes of Dan Neil and Anthony Patterson becoming key players in their return to the Championship.
One player who looks well on his way to becoming a huge talent is Chris Rigg, who forced his way into the starting line-up in the final months of the season.
The teenager put pen to paper on a two-year scholarship deal last summer, but has continued to attract attention from across Europe after making 22 senior appearances since turning 16 years old.
Rigg has already caught the eye of clubs such as Newcastle United and Liverpool, while reports have now claimed that two Bundesliga outfits are eager to lure him away from Wearside.
Chris Rigg could play Champions League football next season
According to journalist Alan Nixon, Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund are ‘on alert’ about Rigg’s situation this summer.
Speaking on his Patreon, Nixon said: “Sunderland whizz kid Chris Rigg goes into the shop window fo England under-17s this summer – with German giants watching.
“Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are on alert for the youngster Manchester United looked at and pulled back from last summer.
“Newcastle United are also still a leading admirer but he may yet have an offer from abroad first.”
Should the 16-year-old be tempted by the Bundesliga?
Chris Rigg could well prefer to stay in England, but the success of Jude Bellingham at Dortmund will surely be in the back of his mind.
Signal Iduna Park is a brilliant place to develop young talent and they clearly aren’t afraid to give teenagers a chance in the first-team, with Bellingham making his debut at 17 years old.
Bayer Leverkusen could also be a tempting offer, with Xabi Alonso completely transforming the club into one of the most frightening teams in Europe.
Rigg may believe he will be able to earn himself more regular game-time in the Bundesliga than he would with a top Premier League club, but his place in Sunderland’s team could also tempt him to stay for at least another year.
The Black Cats desperately need to tie him down to a professional contract though, as there is no doubt his market value could sky-rocket over the next few years.
