Chelsea and Man United must have 2026 in mind when it comes to Sunderland AFC transfer | OneFootball

The Premier League duo have been linked with the player, but they should think twice before bidding for him this summer.

Chris Rigg was making headlines at the start of the season after a series of phenomenal performances for Sunderland at just 17 years of age.

Such performances garnered attention from the Premier League big boys, with Manchester United and Chelsea just a couple of the clubs credited with interest in the teenager.

However, as the season has progressed, clubs of that stature might start to reconsider their approach for the midfielder, given his recent run of form.

Chris Rigg has faltered for Sunderland of late

The start of the 2024/25 campaign was a breakthrough one for Rigg after being handed the opportunity to start for the Black Cats by Regis Le Bris.

The teenager produced several match-winning displays and scored what will be considered one of the most inventive goals of the season, with his intuitive back-heel against Middlesbrough.

Given his young years, it is unsurprising that he has caught the glance of a host of England's top clubs, all of whom are hell-bent on securing the best up-and-coming English talent.

However, as the season has progressed, Rigg has stuttered and, after a string of uninspiring performances, Le Bris has taken action by dropping the midfielder.

Of course, Rigg is not to blame for this dip in form. At 17, a lot has been expected of the Hebburn-born man, and he has already accumulated 35 appearances in all competitions.

Since Sunderland's 2-2 draw with Blackburn Rovers on Christmas Eve, Rigg has failed to contribute a goal or an assist, while he has looked laboured at times.

Man Utd and Chelsea should play waiting game with Rigg

While Rigg has failed to impress of late, supporters will be sure that this is just a blip in what looks to be a promising career for the teenager.

However, the Red Devils and the Blues will be assessing the midfielder's progress and should think twice before submitting a sizeable offer to the North East club this summer.

Rigg evidently has a very high ceiling, but how many times have players burst onto the scene and failed to live up to expectations? The Premier League duo will need to bear this in mind.

Just look at Evan Ferguson. A couple of years ago, there was talk over a £100m price tag, with United one of the clubs strongly linked with a move for the striker.

He has since struggled for game time and was subsequently loaned out to West Ham United, where he has been limited to substitute appearances.

Time is certainly on Rigg's side and Chelsea and United should bear this in mind when considering a deal for the midfielder, with 2026 likely to provide a better insight into his potential.