With Arsenal eyeing the future, the buzz around Sunderland’s rising star Chris Rigg could spark a thrilling transfer saga this summer.
Arsenal failed to make a mark in the January transfer window as none of their pursuits bore fruit, resulting in the club being empty-handed come deadline day on February 3. However, the Gunners are reportedly already sowing the seeds for potential moves in the summer, and have their eyes on Sunderland’s promising midfielder Chris Rigg, who is making waves in the English football circuit.
As per reports from TBR Football, Arsenal as well as Manchester United sent scouts to watch the teenager in action for the Black Cats’ 3-2 win against Middlesbrough on Deadline Day. Another player on both clubs’ radar was Jobe Bellingham, who is also having a great season for the club. However, neither club made any move for either of the players due to the shortage of time.
The Gunners have reportedly been scouting Rigg since November and are keen to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. He has been a mainstay in Sunderland’s first team this season, amassing 2,155 minutes across 28 games, scoring four goals and providing one assist as well. However, considering his importance to their first team, it is unlikely they will quote a modest asking price.
Analyzing Chris Rigg’s profile and where he would fit in at Arsenal
Chris Rigg was born in 2007 and began his youth career with Sunderland in 2017, representing their academy at various levels until 2023. He was promoted to the first team after some impressive performances and has already played 53 games for the senior side, scoring seven goals and providing one assist as well.
Deployed mainly in central areas as an attacking or central midfielder, Rigg is also able to play out wide on the right side, as a makeshift defensive midfielder, and also as a false nine or a second striker. This versatility is something that has surely excited an astute tactician like Mikel Arteta, who emphasizes on players being able to play multiple roles.
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Aged just 17, Rigg is also an open book for coaches to train and influence him, hopefully helping him realize his true potential that so many have pointed towards in the very early stages. It remains to be seen if his rumored move to the Emirates Stadium gathers any significant momentum.
