Premier League duo Newcastle and Everton are both reportedly chasing Sunderland wonderkid Chris Rigg.
The 14-year-old midfielder is already rated in the £1million bracket, despite his young age, and the Black Cats academy star is being tipped to join a Premier League club this summer.
Rigg has come through the junior ranks at the Stadium of Light and currently plays for Sunderland’s Under-18s side.
He has already notched two goals and an assist at that level, sparking top-flight interest in a player many experts believe is the best in the country for his age group.
Local lad Rigg comes from a family of Newcastle supporters but he could end up being bound for Merseyside.
Sunderland are well known for producing special young talent, with several big names coming through on Wearside.
Liverpool and England midfielder Jordan Henderson came through the Academy of Light, before moving to Anfield in a £16million deal.
Three Lions No.1 Jordan Pickford was another who moved on when he joined Everton for £22.5million in 2017.
Summer move expected for Riggs
While Rigg’s fee will certainly not eclipse those figures, he is expected to command a substantial sum.
The report from The Sun adds that although Sunderland will be loathed to lose the player, they understand the economics of the situation and will allow Rigg the opportunity to join a top-flight club – if the price is right.
Ironically both Newcastle and Everton have been embroiled in a battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League this season.
Eddie Howe’s men are currently 10 points clear of the drop zone. The Toffees, meanwhile, are only four off 18th spot.
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