Latest Developments:
- West Ham United are leading the race for Chris Rigg.
- The Hammers are preparing a bid for the Sunderland star.
- Rigg is under contract until June 2027.
Whisper+ Analysis:
Authenticity (2/5): West Ham lead Rigg race
West Ham are reportedly at the front of the queue to sign Sunderland's Rigg in the summer transfer window.
That is according to Football Insider, who claim that the Hammers are preparing to make a formal transfer offer for the England Under-19 international.
Value (3.5/5): Contract until 2027
Sunderland are under no immediate pressure to sell Rigg, who still has two years left to run on his current deal. They are likely to demand a considerable fee for a player who has undoubted potential.
Suitability (3.5/5): Midfield talent
Rigg is a dynamic midfielder who likes to have the ball at his feet and is strong in retaining it when in possession. The 17-year-old has already established himself as a regular feature in a Championship side, having started 30 of his 35 Championship appearances this term. Rigg has often been used as an attacking midfielder, but he is also comfortable playing in a slightly deeper role.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Time for a refresh
West Ham boss Graham Potter can currently call upon Lucas Paqueta, James Ward-Prowse, Tomas Soucek, Guido Rodriguez, Edson Alvarez and Carlos Soler as his central midfield options.
Soler is set to return to Paris Saint-Germain at the end of his loan spell, while there could also be other midfield departures as part of a rebuild.
Rigg could be the perfect candidate to refresh West Ham's engine room, although he would have a challenge to prove himself in the Premier League.
Logic (3.5/5): Ready for next steps
Having showcased his talents in the Championship, Rigg will be keen to continue his development by making the leap to the top-flight next season. His future at the Stadium of Light could depend on whether Sunderland can secure promotion from the playoffs. If they fail, Rigg could seek a move to fulfil his Premier League dream.
Whisper+ Verdict: 16/25
West Ham could be a possible option if Sunderland fail to win promotion. However, we have doubts over the reliability of the source.
