Insider Exclusive: Man United scouts 'closely watching' 17-yr-old 'every week'

Man United scouts have been in attendance at multiple Sunderland games to track the progress of Chris Rigg, according to the club’s former chief scout.

Mick Brown, who spent over a decade at Old Trafford during the club’s most successful period and remains very well-connected there, exclusively told Football Insider that scouts have been impressed by his level at such a young age.

Football Insider revealed on 2 November that United want to sign a young star and allow them to grow into a superstar and make their name at the club.

Rigg, 17, has been identified as one of the key targets to help with that ambition after establishing himself as a key player in Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland side.

The attacking midfielder has already made 39 appearances for Sunderland despite his age, and has featured in all 13 of their Championship fixtures so far this season.

He also picked up September’s Goal of the Month and Young Player of the Month awards off the back of his impressive displays.

As a result, the Black Cats have set their asking price at £20-30million for the 17-year-old and are unwilling to see him leave, as revealed by Football Insider.

Man United plotting move to sign Sunderland star Chris Rigg

Chelsea and Real Madrid are also said to be interested in Rigg’s signature, with his performances at such a young age attracting interest from across Europe.

Brown, who also spent time in Sunderland’s scouting department under Roy Keane and has a wealth of experience in top-level recruitment, insisted that United have been impressed by what they’ve seen and could look to explore a deal.

“He’s definitely one they’re interested in,” he told Football Insider.

“He fits the profile of a young player who they can help develop.

“They’ve had scouts watching him closely at Sunderland nearly every week this season.

“They will know how good he is and how far they think he can go in the game, and from what I’ve heard they’ve been very impressed.

“Man United have a very good relationship with Sunderland behind the scenes, too.

“There are a number of young players up and down the country that they’ve sent scouts to watch, but Rigg’s performances have been very, very impressive.

“I think they’ll keep an eye on his progress and then determine whether they think he’s ready for the step up, but all signs suggest he will be capable.”

In other news, Ruben Amorim will make a final Harry Maguire transfer decision.

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