The Black Cats might raid the French market, with Manchester United interested in teenage star Rigg.
Clermont Foot midfielder Habib Keita is still on Sunderland’s radar as they attempt to boost their team ahead of the Premier League season.
At the same time, there is thought to be rising interest in teenage wonder Chris Rigg, with European heavyweights joining the fray and the Black Cats prepared to stand firm to protect one of their greatest assets.
According to Ontheminute.com, Keita is the latest name on Sunderland’s radar as the club seeks to strengthen its midfield options.
Last season, the 23-year-old Malian impressed in Ligue 2 with 30 games, one goal, and four assists. Keita, who is highly acclaimed for his versatility, talent, and work rate, has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in France’s second division.
Regis Le Bris clearly has his finger on the pulse of the French league, and while L’Équipe earlier reported that QPR, Stoke City, and Crystal Palace were all interested, Sunderland are now said to be actively monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, the Black Cats are fighting to keep one of their own. According to reports in Italy, Serie A club Lazio has entered the race to sign Rigg, who is already garnering great interest from throughout Europe. Il Messaggero, via La Lazio Siamo Noi, reports that the Italian club is keeping a close eye on the 17-year-old’s growth, while facing tough competition from Premier League and Bundesliga clubs.
TEAMtalk reports that seven Premier League clubs are tracking Rigg, including Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, West Ham, Everton, Brighton, and Crystal Palace.
Bundesliga teams Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig are also thought to be interested, with both hoping to repeat the Dortmund model that saw Jobe Bellingham signed earlier this summer.
However, Sunderland do not want to sell, and Rigg, at 18, is thought to be eager to continue developing with his current club before making his big move. Despite rising conjecture, Sunderland will do everything they can to keep Rigg.
The England youth international is under contract until 2027 after signing professional terms last year, and the club is thought to have set a £35 million valuation on the midfielder, with no plans to accept anything less.
Rigg played a major role in Sunderland’s promotion-winning campaign under Régis Le Bris, and while elite teams are circling, sources say the teenager will stay on Wearside for the time being.
According to sources mentioned in TEAMtalk’s report, the club has no intention of selling Rigg during this window and will continue to fight any overtures.
Sunderland are also said to be interested in reopening negotiations with the midfielder about new terms, despite the fact that his current contract has two years remaining.
The teenager made 31 appearances in all competitions last season, playing an important role in Régis Le Bris’ side, and is anticipated to be a crucial player when the club returns to the Premier League.
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