Manchester United's "very good relationship with Sunderland" could allegedly put the Red Devils in pole position to sign teenager Chris Rigg during next summer's transfer window.
The 17-year-old is regarded as one of the best young talents in English football and has starred for Sunderland during the 2024-25 campaign, making 14 appearances in all competitions, scoring three times in the process.
Rigg has netted three times in his last eight Championship appearances, and there is thought to be a host of interest surrounding him, with Chelsea and Real Madrid believed to be pushing for his signature.
Man United, meanwhile, allegedly feel that the midfielder could be 'the next Roy Keane', with the Red Devils said to have been in touch with Sunderland during last summer's transfer window to register their interest.
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Man United are "definitely" interested in Rigg, claims club's former chief scout
According to Man United's former chief scout Mick Brown, the 20-time English champions have been watching Rigg "nearly every week this season", and the club's "very good relationship" with Sunderland could place them in a strong position to get a deal done.
"He's definitely one they're interested in," he told Football Insider. "He fits the profile of a young player who they can help develop. They've had scouts watching him closely at Sunderland nearly every week this season.
"They will know how good he is and how far they think he can go in the game, and from what I've heard they've been very impressed. Man United have a very good relationship with Sunderland behind the scenes, too.
"There are a number of young players up and down the country that they've sent scouts to watch, but Rigg's performances have been very, very impressive. I think they'll keep an eye on his progress and then determine whether they think he's ready for the step up, but all signs suggest he will be capable."
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How much would Sunderland teenager Rigg cost?
Sunderland would allegedly want as much as £30m for Rigg, with the midfielder contracted to the Black Cats until June 2027.
The midfielder made three FA Cup appearances for Sunderland during the 2022-23 season before featuring on 22 occasions in all competitions last term.
Rigg only turned 17 in June, but he has already made 39 appearances for the Black Cats, with 34 of those outings coming in the Championship, and it is not difficult to see why he is so highly-rated.
Sunderland may earn promotion to the Premier League for the 2025-26 campaign, but it is unlikely to be enough to keep hold of Rigg, as some of the most powerful clubs in world football circle for his services.
Matt Law
