Manchester United have long been linked with a move to sign Chris Rigg from Sunderland, and while interest had subsided, Ineos should not be so quick to write him off.
At the age of just 18, Chris Rigg has already had a senior career spanning across multiple seasons, as he boasts big experience for his age.
Manchester United were keen on Rigg as recently as earlier this season, with the Sunderland ace considered one of the most exciting talents in the league.
Rigg has struggled with the levels needed in the Premier League, as he dropped out of the Sunderland team for a period of time. However, he’s now been back in the team for his best performance yet.
Chris Rigg of Sunderland pressures Lewis Hall.
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Chris Rigg has best performance of the season for Sunderland vs Newcastle
It made complete sense for Rigg to start in the Tyne-Wear derby, given he is a boyhood Sunderland supporter.
Given the start, Rigg helped as Sunderland scored a famous victory over their bitter rivals at St. James’ Park.
Starting as a right-sided midfielder, Rigg played the entire 90 minutes, and his performance should earn him a place in the team going forward, as his SofaScore stats show.
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Rigg made three key passes in the game, accumulating 0.56 expected assists, in the game which showcases his creative quality.
He also completed all three of his crosses, showcasing his accuracy of pass.
Defensively, Rigg also shone with six defensive contributions, winning all of his attempted tackles (4) and all the duels he competed in (5).
It was a really well-rounded performance in a position that he won’t have been completely comfortable in, given that he is more naturally a midfielder.
This display proves United’s interest in Rigg 12 months ago was well guided and should keep him in the thinking as a wildcard signing this summer.
Should Chris Rigg be on Man United’s midfield summer target list?
He's a long term target, but is he finally proving he could make Old Trafford leap 👀
CHRIS RIGG stats
Graphic via SofaScore
Rigg now ticks the major Ineos transfer box
Last summer, Rigg was dreaming of playing Premier League football with his boyhood club, but now he’s accomplished this, which could mean he is more open to a move.
Additionally, now that Rigg has played and shown he can cut it at a Premier League level, at one of the most intense venues in a derby.
Premier League proven is a box Ineos are looking to tick in a potential signing and with performances like this one at St. James’ Park, Rigg will be ticking that demand.
By playing to such a high level, Rigg has proven he can do it, but the thing that will get United back in the hunting pack is whether he can do it regularly to conclude this season.
One to keep an eye on in the next few months ahead of the summer transfer window.
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