Exclusive: Chris Rigg's transfer stance as Sunderland make decision over Manchester United target's future

11/22/2024 02:15 AM

• Exclusive from Graeme Bailey

Manchester United are about to begin a new era in wake of Ruben Amorim taking over permanently from Erik ten Hag.

The Red Devils have endured a difficult season, which prompted the club’s board to part company with Ten Hag and appoint Amorim.

With Ruud van Nistelrooy having done well as Manchester United’s caretaker manager, the stage is now set for Amorim to push the club forward.

And with the January transfer window on the horizon, the Red Devils could well look to make some new acquisitions.

One player Man United are keen on signing is Sunderland’s Chris Rigg, who has made a name for himself as one of the best youngsters in the EFL.

TBR Football were told in September that Man United are determined to sign Rigg, who is also on the radar of Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle United.

Wecan now reveal Rigg’s stance towards a prospective move next year, along with Sunderland’s stance over their midfield prodigy’s immediate future.

Sunderland not planning to let Manchester United target Chris Rigg go in January

TBR Football sources say Sunderland have made it clear that they won’t entertain any deal in January – whilst they’re fighting for promotion from the Championship.

Likewise, the Black Cats aren’t interested in any mid-season talks which would see Rigg move away at the end of the season – they want to focus fully on the campaign ahead.

Meanwhile, Rigg is also happy to concentrate on Sunderland’s promotion charge and, if they do go up, there’s a fair chance he could stay put at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland’s stance towards Jobe Bellingham is similar – any talks pertaining to a future move will have to wait until the end of the season.

The 19-year-old brother of Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham is on the radar of Premier League duo Crystal Palace and West Ham United.

Meanwhile, Bundesliga duo Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig, plus French side Marseille, are also keeping tabs.

Sunderland top of Championship table but promotion fight is intense

Man United will be eager to turn over a new leaf, with Amorim set to take charge of his side for the first time on Sunday when they play Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

However, January is always a tricky time for big signings to be made, particularly when said targets are involved in a promotion challenge, like Rigg and Bellingham are at Sunderland.

The Black Cats are currently top of the Championship but it’s incredibly tight in the promotion spots, with third-placed Leeds United just two points behind.

Meanwhile, seventh-placed Middlesbrough are on 24 points, seven behind Sunderland and second-placed Sheffield United.