Sunderland may reportedly have to fend off interest from Newcastle United to retain the services of youngster Chris Rigg.
Both clubs enjoyed a productive summer transfer window, signing as many as 25 players to participate in the senior ranks and other age groups.
Despite the market now being closed until the start of 2022, that will not stop speculation regarding deals which could potentially be done in the future.
According to The Sun, Newcastle are contemplating whether to make a sustained push to secure the signature of one of England's most highly-regarded prospects.
Although he only turned 15 years of age in June, Rigg has already represented Sunderland in a Premier League 2 fixture.
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The midfielder played the full 90 minutes as the Black Cats went down by a 3-2 scoreline at the hands of Norwich City on August 5.
That progression comes on the back of featuring on nine occasions in the Under-18 Premier League as a 14-year-old.
His most notable outing came during a remarkable fixture against Leeds United, Rigg contributing a goal and an assist in a 7-5 triumph over the Yorkshire giants.
While Sunderland are currently benefitting from the rapid development of Rigg, they are inevitably bracing themselves for widespread interest.
According to the report, however, Newcastle could be favourites due to Rigg's family being supporters of the Magpies.
Newcastle are allegedly considering whether to £2.5m for Rigg, an offer which Sunderland may feel is too big to turn down at this stage of the prospect's career.
Darren Plant
