Liverpool Pushing to Beat Everton in the Race to Sign 17-year-old Wonderkid – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool and Everton Join Race for Sunderland’s Chris Rigg

Chris Rigg, Sunderland’s teenage sensation, is firmly on the radar of some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs—including both Liverpool and Everton, according to a new report from iNews. The 17-year-old midfielder, already turning heads with his mature displays in the Championship, has attracted scouts from Manchester United, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, and West Ham, with Merseyside’s two clubs the latest to register interest.

“Rigg has been scouted on numerous occasions this season by a variety of Premier League clubs,” notes iNews, underlining the level of attention this young man is garnering.

A Future Shaped by Sunderland’s Promotion Hopes

The future of Rigg, who has two years remaining on his current Sunderland deal, seems likely to hinge on whether the Black Cats can earn promotion to the Premier League. Currently chasing their first return to the top flight since 2017, Sunderland have embraced a development-first approach, giving youngsters like Rigg an essential platform.

“He’ll likely stay at the Stadium of Light if they are successful in their bid to return to the top flight,” the article states. Such an outcome could see the midfielder commit his future with a new contract.

Photo: IMAGO

However, should Sunderland fall short, a summer move could beckon, with speculation suggesting any fee would need to rival the £30 million Tottenham paid Leeds for Archie Gray last year.

Liverpool Planning a Summer Refresh

At Anfield, the interest in Rigg is especially significant given the club’s anticipated squad overhaul. Despite a title charge under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds are expected to enter a transitional phase, with potential exits for Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, as well as continuing questions around Harvey Elliott’s game time.

Rigg, described as an “all-action” and “dynamic” midfielder, could be viewed as a long-term option in Liverpool’s engine room—particularly appealing due to his age, technical profile, and energy levels. The potential to mould him into a Slot-style pressing machine will not go unnoticed by the club’s data-led recruitment team.

Everton’s Rebuilding Project Under Moyes

Across Stanley Park, David Moyes has inspired a mini-revival at Everton. Since returning for a second spell following Sean Dyche’s dismissal, Moyes has stabilised the Toffees, guiding them to safety and a respectable mid-table position. His side’s current form—five wins, six draws and only three defeats in 14 matches—offers hope of brighter days.

However, Everton’s long-term prospects demand an injection of youth. With one of the oldest squads in the Premier League, adding a player like Rigg could represent the first steps toward a more balanced and future-focused roster.

“They are in need of fresh faces,” the article notes. Rigg, with his technical quality and versatility, could thrive in Moyes’ disciplined structure while gaining valuable first-team exposure.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

There’s always an element of risk involved in signing teenage talents, especially those yet to feature regularly at Premier League level. But Chris Rigg looks like a calculated bet worth taking—especially for a Liverpool side about to embark on a new era under Arne Slot.

Rigg’s profile aligns with the club’s long-term strategy of targeting high-upside youngsters who can be developed into elite performers. His maturity, work rate, and fearless approach make him an enticing option, particularly if midfield reinforcements are needed due to departures. With Curtis Jones, Elliott and Bajcetic already in the mix, Rigg could join a growing homegrown core tasked with writing the next chapter of Anfield’s history.

From a supporter’s perspective, there’s also something reassuring in seeing Liverpool prioritise domestic talent. While continental gems often grab the headlines, there’s real value in backing English youth—especially one already proving himself in a physically demanding league like the Championship.

And there’s the emotional pull too. If Rigg were to join and flourish, the Reds would have secured another local lad ready to carry the club’s identity forward. He might not be the finished article yet, but at just 17, his ceiling is enormous. If Sunderland don’t go up, and Liverpool act swiftly, this could be a deal remembered fondly in years to come.