Newcastle United and Man Utd delivered major transfer blow as Sunderland starlet to sign new contract

Rigg is set to sign his first professional contract with the Black Cats - ending a whole host of speculation surrounding his immediate future on Wearside. The 17-year-old had been mulling over his future on Wearside as their search for Michael Beale’s permanent replacement as manager dragged on.

However, the appointment of Regis Le Bris as manager has now been confirmed with Rigg’s extension likely to follow imminently. Newcastle United, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City were among the clubs credited with an interest in the teenager, but they all look set to miss out on his signature this summer.

Rigg, who made his senior Black Cats debut in the FA Cup as a 15-year-old, became a regular in the Sunderland first-team towards the end of last season and captained England Under-17’s during the U17’s European Championship earlier this summer. Greg Lincoln’s side, which also included Newcastle United defender Leo Shahar, were defeated by Italy on penalties in the quarter-final.

Rigg’s decision to sign a new contract at the Stadium of Light means Sunderland can now dictate a transfer fee for him should they decide to sell him in the future. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reports that Rigg, who may have a big role to play under new boss Le Bris next season, is expected to sign a three-year contract with the Black Cats.