Everton and David Moyes look to be keen admirers of Sunderland’s 18-year-old gem Chris Rigg.
The strategy from Everton this transfer window is to bring in young talent who can progress under Moyes’ guidance.
That’s what’s been done so far with the likes of Thierno Barry, Carlos Alcaraz, and Adam Aznou, who could all have a big future at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Sunderland’s starlet is someone who could have the same destiny as Everton have kept tabs on Rigg for almost a year.
However, Sunderland are wanting a new contract for Rigg, but that doesn’t seem to have fazed Moyes.
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Everton explore Chris Rigg deal but David Moyes wants to see Sunderland star develop first
The 62-year-old is a mastermind when it comes to developing English talent; he’s done this in the past and now in the present, as the examples of Wayne Rooney and Jarrad Branthwaite come to mind.
Moyes has got that pedigree which attracts players who have the chance to be nurtured by him, as Tyler Dibling has asked to leave Southampton in search of this development under the Scotsman.
Another player who could find success from this is Rigg, and despite the contract plans, TEAMtalk have claimed that the Toffees are still exploring a deal for the exciting youngster.
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Despite their desire, Moyes is eager to watch the box-to-box midfielder develop in the Premier League before making their first move, as his plan is to play the ‘waiting game’.
Rigg could be inspired by Jordan Pickford in joining Everton, but the Blues will have to be wary of the sacrifice they just made.
Everton sacrifice £40m deal for Chris Rigg as rival clubs linger
Although it’s smart not to just go all out for an 18-year-old who isn’t Premier League proven, this decision by the club comes with risk.
Sunderland are demanding £40 million for Rigg, which explains why the Toffees haven’t looked into a deal this summer, but rivals might have another idea.
The likes of Man United want Rigg, so this is something to consider for The Friedkin Group as they formulate their plan.
It won’t be an easy deal to do, as for someone of the youngster’s age to put up the numbers he did last season proves how special he is.
Games played 42
Goal involvements 5 (4G+1A)
Chances created 42
Duels won per 90 4.95
Touches in opposition box 78
Tackles won % 56.9%
Chris Rigg’s statistics in the 24/25 Championship season, as per FotMob
£40 million is still a risk despite his promise, but the other factor Everton will have to consider is that this figure might only get bigger.
Despite this potentially happening, it seems like Rigg is staying put at the Stadium of Light this season, and Moyes will be keeping a keen eye.