Liverpool leading the race to sign Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg

Liverpool leading the race to sign young Sunderland star Chris Rigg

According to the Daily Star (h/t Express), Liverpool are leading the race to sign young Sunderland star Chris Rigg.

The 15-year-old, who is a hot property among players of his age, has been linked with Newcastle United, Everton and other Premier League clubs in the last few months. But, the Reds seem to be leading this chase.

Rigg is too young now to sign a professional contract with Sunderland, hence the door is open for another English club to sign him and add a quality player to their academy.

Chris Rigg (L) is seen as one of the best u16s in the country.

Plays as a CM. Technically very good in possession.

I’m confident he will make his first team debut by the end of the season pic.twitter.com/mmHWQUKltD
— TheSecretScout (@TheSecretScout_) December 9, 2022

The Black Cats are desperate to keep hold of the player, but they are increasingly concerned by the fact that the attraction of playing for a top-flight club will pull Rigg away from signing a contract with them.

The report also revealed that Liverpool, or any other club interested, would need to pay a fee of around £2.5m. The figure seems a bit high considering it is for a 15-year-old, but it’s nothing we can’t afford.

Rigg is a central midfielder by trade who can operate as a wide midfielder on either side of the field. In six appearances for the Sunderland youth sides this season so far, the 15-year-old has two assists to his name.

Diego Pisani (R) of Italy is challenged by Chris Rigg (L) of England during an U16 friendly game. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Rigg is believed to be one of the bright prospects at the Academy of Light, just as how Jordan Henderson was during his time at the club. Liverpool would hope that they can sign the 15-year-old and he turns out to be what the current Reds’ captain is.

We do have one of the best academies in the country for nurturing talent. Jurgen Klopp is the type of manager who is not afraid to give young players multiple chances to showcase their talent on the pitch. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliot are glaring examples.

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Given how highly Rigg is rated, we would love him to come to Merseyside and develop his game here and hopefully follow in the footsteps of our captain.