Manchester United are reportedly working on a move for Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg, with the Red Devils determined to win the race for his signature during this summer's transfer window.
Rigg, 17, is widely regarded as one of the best young talents in English football, making 36 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals and registering one assist in the process.
There has been a host of speculation surrounding the youngster's future in recent months, with Man United believed to be just one of a number of major teams looking to secure his signature.
Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been credited with an interest in the midfielder, who has already made 61 appearances for Sunderland, scoring seven times and registering one assist.
Rigg is currently bidding to help Sunderland secure a return to the Premier League for next season, with the Black Cats fourth in the Championship table. However, it is expected that he will be on the move this summer even if Regis Le Bris's side secure promotion.
© Imago
Man United 'working on a deal for Rigg'
According to CaughtOffside, Man United view Rigg as a priority target for the summer transfer window, with the Red Devils placing him near the top of their shortlist when it comes to the upcoming market.
The report claims that Ruben Amorim's side view the teenager as a 'must-have talent', and the club are already working on a deal in the hope that an agreement can be struck in the near future.
Ex-Man United scout Mick Brown recently said that the club's "very good relationship" with Sunderland could help them beat other clubs to a deal.
"He's definitely one they're interested in," he told Football Insider. "He fits the profile of a young player who they can help develop. They've had scouts watching him closely at Sunderland nearly every week this season.
"They will know how good he is and how far they think he can go in the game, and from what I've heard they've been very impressed. Man United have a very good relationship with Sunderland behind the scenes, too.
"There are a number of young players up and down the country that they've sent scouts to watch, but Rigg's performances have been very, very impressive. I think they'll keep an eye on his progress and then determine whether they think he's ready for the step up, but all signs suggest he will be capable."
Rigg fits the brief when it comes to Man United's new transfer policy, with the club now targeting young players with outstanding potential rather than established stars entering the latter stages of their careers.
Matt Law
