Man United learn of Sunderland AFC's Chris Rigg demand | OneFootball

Teams interested in Rigg look set to face a tough battle in their potential quest to sign him during the January window.

Sunderland aren't prepared to let Chris Rigg leave the club in January for less than £20m or £25m.

This is according to a report from Fichajes, who have confirmed that Manchester United remain interested in getting a deal over the line for the talented 17-year-old.

Rigg may not have shone in every game this season, but he has been able to make some important contributions during the 2024/25 campaign, having been given the opportunity to start regularly by Regis Le Bris.

The midfielder has been a highly-rated player for some time now and made his debut during the early stages of 2023 under Tony Mowbray, which reinforces just how highly he's valued at the Stadium of Light.

It may only be a matter of time before the teenager moves on from Wearside though, with some of Europe's biggest clubs being linked with a move for the player in recent months.

United have been linked, but so have others, including Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Arsenal and Liverpool have also been linked with a move for the player, but the Black Cats are in a fairly strong negotiating position at this stage.

Back in the summer, Rigg signed a contract to extend his stay on Wearside until the summer of 2027, so they may not be under much pressure to sell the teenager at this point.

And with the player only likely to get better, they may be keen to retain him for as long as they possibly can, both to benefit from his performances on the pitch and maximise his value off it.

Sunderland stance on Chris Rigg amid Manchester United links

The Black Cats are set to take a tough stance on Rigg during the January window, with Fichajes reporting that they may not accept a bid of less than £20m or £25m next month.

The same report has also stated that the Red Devils are currently the team most determined to get a deal over the line.

This would make sense, as they have been the side most heavily linked with the 17-year-old in recent months, having seen him shine.

Sunderland shouldn't let go of Chris Rigg without a fight

The Black Cats are in a strong negotiating position, considering his contract situation.

And as mentioned above, he will only get better, which should raise his valuation.

Selling him now probably wouldn't be ideal for all parties.

The Black Cats would lose one of their key players and the 17-year-old may find it difficult to adapt to life at a new club mid-season, which won't benefit the buying side.

Keeping him until at least the end of the season seems like the logical and obvious choice.