Manchester United are preparing a “formal offer” for Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg, according to the Northern Echo.
The 16-year-old can’t sign a professional contract until he turns 17 next month so the Red Devils are aiming to take advantage of the situation.
Sunderland won’t be able to stop Rigg from moving to Old Trafford, but they would be due a certain level of compensation, which would be set through a tribunal.
United are thought to be hoping to agree a deal directly with the Black Cats, though, to prevent negotiations from being long and drawn out.
Rigg is a player in high demand
One of the reasons why Erik ten Hag’s side are looking to get the ball rolling on talks is because other high-profile clubs are also keen on signing the player.
The Northern Echo report that Arsenal and Newcastle are “extremely interested” in Rigg while Bundesliga clubs Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund have been credited as potential suitors as well.
United are, however, determined to win the race for the teenager, with INEOS setting their stall out to sign a wealth of young talent over the next few transfer windows.
What do United fans need to know about Rigg?
The midfielder came through Sunderland’s academy, having also made his name playing for England at youth level. He went to the Under 17 World Cup late last year, starting two of the four games at the tournament before the Three Lions were knocked out by Uzbekistan in the round of 16.
Rigg has since been capped by England’s Under 18s, with many tipping him to go on to even greater things on the international stage in the future.
For Sunderland, the youngster made his senior debut against Shrewsbury in the third round of the FA Cup last season. Rigg has since made 25 appearances for the first team, having started eight times in the Championship this campaign.