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Manchester United have missed out on signing midfield protégé, Chris Rigg, after the 17-year-old agreed a new three year deal with Sunderland.
United have long-standing links with Rigg who is considered one of the most highly-rated players in his age group in English youth football.
Having just turned 17 a few weeks ago, the youngster played an impressive 23 times for Sunderland in the Championship this season, scoring two goals in the process.
At only 15, Rigg became Sunderland’s youngster ever outfield player when he made his debut against Shrewsbury in the FA Cup in the 2022/23 season. He then secured the club’s youngest ever goal scorer record in August of the same year after scoring against Crewe Alexander.
Rigg is also the England U17 captain, having represented his country at U15, U16, and U18 levels respectively.
A host of clubs were reported to be tracking the midfielder, both domestically and continentally. United were keen admirers but there was also interest from Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund.
A report relayed by The Peoples Person even contended the Red Devils were “prepared to make the first move” and table a bid for Rigg back in May.
However, as revealed by Fabrizio Romano, the 17-year-old has now committed his future to Sunderland by putting pen to paper over a new deal.
Romano, writing on X, states:
“Understand England U17 captain Chris Rigg has now decided to sign a three year deal with Sunderland until 2027. Premier League clubs wanted him but he’s set to stay, new deal + big financial commitment for Rigg to stay. Huge one for #SAFC.”
While it will come as a blow to United given their interest in the midfielder, the continuity of remaining at his boyhood club, in a low pressure environment with plenty of opportunities for first-team football, will be an excellent means of progression.
And, if Rigg continues his current trajectory, the Red Devils will always be able to revisit a move in a few years time as he matures as a player.
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