Sunderland fans have waited years to return to the Premier League, but promotion has come with a new problem — holding on to their best young star.
Chris Rigg, just 17, is now being chased by some of Europe’s top clubs, and Liverpool have reportedly joined the queue.
Rigg has been turning heads with his performances in the Championship. And now, with Sunderland back in the big league, the spotlight has only grown brighter.
According to TEAMtalk, nine clubs — yes, nine — are tracking the teenager. Seven of them are from the Premier League. The other two are no small fish either: Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig.
This isn’t just another transfer rumour. It’s more like a full-blown bidding war.
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How much might Liverpool need to pay for the Sunderland talent?
Rigg, a Sunderland fan since day one, still seems happy at the Stadium of Light. But loyalty will be tested when the biggest names in football come knocking. And Sunderland knows it.
The club has reportedly slapped a £35 million price tag on the midfielder. Not small change, especially for a 17-year-old. But then again, Rigg isn’t your average prospect. He’s already played over 70 games and scored some important goals, including one backheel that won him Goal of the Month.
Sources say Liverpool, Arsenal, and Brighton see him as one for the future. Manchester United and West Ham, though, are considering more immediate moves. Everton, Crystal Palace, and the Bundesliga duo also remain in the picture.
Sunderland don’t want another Jobe Bellingham scenario. But when nine clubs line up like it’s a penalty shootout, even the best defences can crack.
Whether Rigg stays or goes, one thing’s clear — this is a player whose rise won’t be stopped any time soon. And whichever club wins this chase, better have a long-term plan. Or risk getting Rigg-rolled.
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