AliousItalian football powerhouse Inter Milan has reportedly joined the race to sign Sunderland’s rising star Chris Rigg, with the Serie A club eager to finalize a deal for the teenage midfielder as soon as possible. According to recent reports, Inter is determined to move swiftly in securing Rigg’s signature before rival suitors can make their move.
The 17-year-old has been a standout performer for Sunderland this season, making 28 appearances in the Championship while contributing four goals and an assist. His impressive displays in midfield have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from several elite clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, and even Real Madrid. Now, according to **InterLive**, the Nerazzurri have joined the chase and are keen to gain an early advantage over their competitors by negotiating a deal with Sunderland at the earliest opportunity.
One of the key factors driving Inter’s interest is Rigg’s adaptability. Manager Simone Inzaghi reportedly views the teenager as a player with a skill set reminiscent of former Lazio star Luis Alberto, who currently plays for Al-Duhail in Qatar. This versatility is believed to be a significant reason why the Italian club is pushing to secure his services.
The report also highlights the fierce competition for Rigg’s signature, particularly from the Premier League. However, Inter appears willing to go the extra mile to lure him to Italy, with suggestions that they are prepared to table an offer of around £12.5 million. This valuation positions Rigg as a more cost-effective alternative to Como 1907’s Nico Paz, whose transfer fee is estimated to be a hefty £41.6 million.
Additionally, **InterLive** claims that Rigg himself could be open to the idea of leaving Wearside, hinting that the prospect of a move abroad may be an enticing opportunity for the young midfielder.
Speaking on the potential departure of young talents like Rigg, Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman previously addressed the club’s approach to handling transfer interest. In an interview last October, he acknowledged the reality of losing promising players, stating: *“The interest is always a backhanded compliment. Would we rather have a team full of talent where everyone is talking about buying and trading our players, or would we rather have a group that no one’s really interested in? I think it’s not a hard question to answer.”*
Speakman emphasized that while Sunderland aims to manage contracts and squad development carefully, they also recognize that some players may outgrow the club’s current level, leading to opportunities elsewhere. He cited the departure of Jack Clarke to Ipswich Town as an example of how the football system naturally works, adding that Sunderland would continue to evaluate each transfer situation individually.
For now, Rigg remains contracted to Sunderland until June 2027, having signed his first professional deal with the club last July. However, with Inter Milan and other top clubs circling, his future at the Stadium of Light remains uncertain.
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