Report: Liverpool Target Championship Wonderkid in £25m Transfer Battle | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye £25 Million Move for Sunderland Starlet Chris Rigg

When Premier League giants like Liverpool turn their attention to the Championship, it’s clear they see something special. Sunderland’s 17-year-old midfield prodigy, Chris Rigg, is the latest talent to catch the Reds’ eye. According to Caught Offside, Liverpool could secure Rigg’s signature for around £25 million, but they face stiff competition from Manchester United and Arsenal.

Rising Star in the Championship

Rigg has been nothing short of sensational for Sunderland this season. Despite his young age, he’s become a regular starter, showcasing versatility across midfield positions. Predominantly an attacking midfielder, Rigg has already netted four goals and provided one assist—impressive stats for a teenager in the rough and tumble of the Championship.

His ability to adapt and contribute in multiple roles hints at his high ceiling. Clubs like Liverpool don’t scout Championship players lightly, and Rigg’s performances have clearly put him on their radar.

Potential Szoboszlai Successor?

Comparisons have already been drawn between Chris Rigg and Liverpool’s own Dominik Szoboszlai. While Rigg may not yet match the Hungarian’s level, his playing style and attacking flair show striking similarities. For Liverpool, signing Rigg could mean securing an ideal understudy for Szoboszlai, allowing the youngster to develop under elite guidance.

However, transitioning from the Championship to Anfield’s demanding stage is no small feat. While his stats are promising, there’s uncertainty about how Rigg will fare against top-tier Premier League competition.

What’s Next for Rigg?

If Liverpool do move forward, a strategic plan might involve signing Rigg and sending him out on loan—perhaps back to Sunderland, should they earn Premier League promotion. This would give Rigg the chance to gain top-flight experience without the immediate pressure of performing at Anfield.

But with Manchester United and Arsenal also circling, Liverpool will need to act decisively. A £25 million fee for a 17-year-old might raise eyebrows, but in today’s market, investing in such potential could prove a masterstroke.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Chris Rigg embodies the type of young, dynamic talent that fits perfectly into the club’s long-term vision. While £25 million is a hefty price tag, we’ve seen Liverpool make smart investments in youth before—just look at how Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones blossomed.

With Arne Slot now at the helm, known for nurturing young talents, Rigg could thrive under his leadership. Slot’s attacking style and focus on player development might be exactly what Rigg needs to transition from a Championship starlet to a Premier League sensation.

The idea of Rigg learning from Szoboszlai is tantalising. Imagine the depth and versatility our midfield could boast in the coming years! While there’s always risk in signing young players, the potential reward here is massive. We say—get it done, Liverpool!