Newcastle United have been eyeing up a summer deal for Chris Rigg, but suddenly face competition for his signature.
The 16-year-old has been linked with a move from Sunderland to Newcastle United, with hope that the midfielder that can have a bigger impact than Jack Colback when he made the same move.
It was reported earlier this year that the Magpies were leading to race to sign Chris Rigg, who comes from a family of Toon fans – despite coming through the Sunderland academy.
Newcastle officials have been scouting the teenager ahead of the summer transfer window, with Rigg set to turn 17 on June 18th. That is when he will be able to sign a professional contract, with clubs like Newcastle getting the chance to snap up one of the Blacks Cats’ brightest youth prospects.
However, it would appear that Newcastle United are not the only club that is keen to sign Rigg.
Manchester United to rival Newcastle United for Chris Rigg
That is according to the Northern Echo, who state that Newcastle United suddenly have competition to sign Rigg this summer.
They report that Manchester United are also keen, and are poised to make the first move for him in the near future.
The Northern Echo state Rigg has featured prominently in recruitment meetings at Old Trafford, as they prepare to overhaul their youth setup.
It is claimed that any approach from Man United will likely lead to other clubs signalling their intent, with the likes of Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Dortmund also taking a look at the Newcastle United target.
How Sunderland feel about Rigg’s future right now
With so many big clubs circling around Rigg, it feels incredibly likely that he will leave the Stadium of Light this summer. However, that is not the belief over on Wearside.
The Northern Echo report that people inside Sunderland are hoping that Rigg will stay where he is and sign a professional contract with them. The report states that Sunderland believe Rigg’s development so far will convince him to continue his career with the Black Cats for now.
Despite being so young, Rigg has played a fair amount of football this season. He made 21 Championship appearances, scoring twice.
Newcastle will hope they can convince Rigg to move to St James’ Park
That regular football could convince Rigg to stay put, but it looks like a lot of different offers will be coming his way. For the Magpies, they will hope that their project is the most appealing, while they have the added bonus of Rigg coming from a family of Newcastle United supporters.
That could entice Rigg, who would also have the benefit of not having to relocate. He would also have a clear path into the first-team at Newcastle, with various youngsters getting a chance under Eddie Howe.
There is also the bonus of working with Howe, who has a great reputation for making players better. That is why Tosin Adarabioyo is keen on a move to Tyneside, and it would be great if it could convince Rigg too.
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