Manchester United are poised to kickstart the race for the highly sought-after Sunderland prodigy, Chris Rigg, by officially presenting a formal contract offer. Rigg’s future has become a focal point of discussion on Wearside, with Sunderland eager to convince the 16-year-old talent to commit to his first professional deal at the Stadium of Light.

Rigg inked a two-year scholarship agreement with Sunderland last summer, but due to FA regulations, he cannot sign his initial professional contract until he reaches his 17th birthday on June 18. Sunderland officials have reportedly engaged in talks regarding the terms of a professional deal with Rigg and his representatives, expressing optimism that the promising youngster from Hebburn will opt to remain with the club.

Although Rigg’s scholarship agreement still has one more year remaining, it does not prevent him from exploring professional opportunities elsewhere once he turns 17. Numerous clubs have been monitoring Rigg’s development over the past year, with Newcastle United and Arsenal displaying significant interest in securing his services. Additionally, German powerhouses Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen were recently linked with potential summer moves for the talented teenager.

However, it is Manchester United who appear primed to make the most assertive move for Rigg. The Red Devils view the young prospect as a key component in their efforts to revamp their academy structure and challenge the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City in the pursuit of top domestic youth talent.

Following the successful takeover of Manchester United’s football operations by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, significant changes have been set in motion across all levels of the club. Making a prominent youth signing serves as a symbolic statement of their intent to shift their transfer strategy.

Rigg, a member of England’s Under-17 World Cup squad, has already made his mark in the Championship despite being just 16 years old. Manchester United’s scouting presence has been consistently visible at the majority of Rigg’s appearances for both Sunderland’s Under-21s and the senior team over the past couple of seasons.

Should Manchester United formally make their move, it is expected to trigger competing offers from rival clubs. While Sunderland may struggle to match the financial packages presented by other suitors, they remain hopeful that the prospect of regular first-team football in the Championship will sway Rigg’s decision in their favor. If Rigg decides to depart this summer, Sunderland will at least receive a significant level of compensation due to his status as a scholar, unlike the scenario had he left last year.

Any potential suitors interested in securing Rigg’s services would be required to make a financial offer to Sunderland. Should the offer be rejected and an agreement cannot be reached, the fee would be determined by an independent tribunal, taking into consideration factors such as first-team appearances, time spent within the club’s academy, contract offers, and international youth caps.