Club confirms deal for ‘really impressive’ Newcastle United & Manchester United transfer target
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Rigg had been targeted by Newcastle after impressing for Sunderland’s academy sides and even breaking into the first-team set-up last season, making three FA Cup appearances. The midfielder, who turned 16 last month was free to join any club this summer but opted to remain at Sunderland, signing a two-year scholarship.
Manchester United were also credited with a serious interest in the Hebburn-born youngster, who is a boyhood Newcastle fan.
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Hide AdAfter securing the players last week, Sunderland officially announced its 2023-24 scholars on July 4, with Rigg named among them.
In addition to breaking into the Sunderland first-team at just 15, Rigg has also been capped by England at Under-15, Under-16 and Under-17 level.
After calling-up Rigg to the Sunderland first-team, manager Tony Mowbray said: “I watched him train today with the first team and do the game-prep, and I have to say he is really impressive.”
Newcastle will continue to monitor Rigg’s progress despite his new contract, with sporting director Dan Ashworth looking to improve the academy set-up on Tyneside.
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Hide AdLast season saw the Magpies sign several teenagers Alex Murphy, Reece Byrne, Charlie McArthur, Jude Smith, Jordan Hackett, Amadou Diallo and Garang Kuol. United’s first summer signing also saw 18-year-old Yankuba Minteh join from Odense for a reported £7million.
The club are looking to nurture young players into talented professionals ready for first-team football and save a lot of money on transfer fees in the process.
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