As Claret & Hugh revealed earlier this month, the gifted trickster was offered to West Ham at a knockdown price. Communications between Sunderland, the player’s agents and the Hammers remain positive following smooth dealings between the clubs in the past.
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Earlier in the season, some had speculated that West Ham scouts were regularly attending Sunderland matches to monitor Jobe Bellingham. However, those stories masked the Hammers’ real target—Chris Rigg—who has caught the eye with his creativity, composure, and excellent close control.
Not only are West Ham understood to be the frontrunners for the attacking midfielder’s signature, but Claret & Hugh have been told: “West Ham can have the player if they want him.”
We were informed that “advanced preliminary talks” are taking place—something of an oxymoron, but nevertheless, progress appears to be steady.
One potential stumbling block could be Sunderland’s promotion push. The Black Cats currently sit 4th in the Championship and are firmly in the play-off picture.
Presumably, promotion to the Premier League would change the landscape, and any planned exits could be halted. But if Sunderland do agree to sell Rigg, West Ham appear to be at the front of the queue—which makes a nice change.