Reports from the Sunderland Echo suggest that Liverpool is considering a move for 16-year-old midfielder Chris Rigg from Sunderland. Rigg, viewed as one of the country’s top prospects, has garnered attention from England’s elite clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich.
Who is Chris Rigg? Rigg made his debut for Sunderland as a 15-year-old last season in the FA Cup Third Round against Fulham. Despite having a goal disallowed for offside, he scored his first senior goal at 16 in a match against Southampton. With 11 senior appearances already, Rigg has shown promise, although Sunderland is cautious about his development.
Contract Situation Although Rigg recently signed a contract extension, his deal with Sunderland expires in June 2025. Despite efforts to retain him, interest in the wonderkid continues to grow, especially with top clubs monitoring his progress. However, his long-term future remains uncertain as he can’t yet agree to professional terms.
Competition from Rivals Manchester United, Chelsea, and even Newcastle United have expressed interest in Rigg. However, his ties to Sunderland and his family’s roots in North Tyneside may influence his decision. Rigg’s team seeks more first-team opportunities before deciding his future.
Potential and Ability While Rigg may struggle with an immediate Premier League step-up, Liverpool’s successful academy development offers hope. His versatility and promising performances suggest he could adapt to various midfield roles, offering a clear canvas for Liverpool’s coaches to mold him into a key player.
Future Outlook Liverpool’s pursuit of Rigg mirrors their strategy of targeting young talents, as seen with Harvey Elliott and Ben Doak. With the potential to become a crucial player for England’s youth teams, Rigg represents an exciting prospect for Liverpool’s future.
