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Sunderland are reportedly prepared to rebuff any January overtures from Manchester United for their highly-rated gem Chris Rigg.
United retain a long-standing interest in Rigg, who is believed to perfectly fit the profile of the type of signings INEOS want to make at the club – young, talented and hungry players who can be nurtured to potentially become superstars.
A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Red Devils are determined to sign Rigg, who is also on the radar of other top outfits like Liverpool, Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Real Madrid.
It was subsequently claimed that United would have to part with nothing short of €30 million to successfully pry Rigg from Sunderland’s hands.
The Northern Echo have given an update and indicated that the Black Cats are “aware” of United’s “growing interest” in the talented teenager but will “resist all approaches” for him during the winter transfer window.
It’s understood that Sunderland are confident Rigg’s head will not be turned by the prospect of plying his trade in the Premier League.
Scott Wilson explains that before Rigg put pen to paper on his first professional deal in the summer, his representatives knew United are admirers of his. However, they felt that his development would be better aided by playing regular first-team football in England’s second tier.
The Northern Echo add, “A January approach from Manchester United is regarded as likely though, with the new regime in charge of the Red Devils hoping to make changes at the turn of the year to assist new boss Ruben Amorim as he seeks to transform the club’s fortunes.”
“New Manchester United owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is keen to make changes in January, and has instructed the club’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, to start formalising plans for the transfer window.”
“Sources claim the Manchester United hierarchy regard Rigg as the most appealing young domestic talent that could potentially be available, and are ready to test Sunderland’s resolve to hold on to their academy product.”
So far this term, Rigg has made 15 appearances across the Championship and EFL Cup, registering three goals in that period.
Sunderland are flying under the management of Regis Le Bris, who currently has them at the top of the table 15 games in.
They’ve not lost since late September when they were beaten by Watford.