Chris Rigg is set to sign a two-year scholarship deal with Sunderland this afternoon.
The Athletic revealed yesterday that the 16-year-old had decided to commit his future to the Black Cats, despite the likes of Newcastle United and Manchester United showing interest.
Rigg has been touted as one of the country’s hottest prospects and became Sunderland’s youngest ever outfield player against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup last season.
The teenager looked set to be handed more opportunities with the club before he picked up an injury that saw him sidelined for the rest of the campaign.
The Sunderland Echo reported that the England youth international arrived at the Academy of Light this morning and will put pen to paper on a new deal later today.
Chris Rigg is one of the most exciting deals Sunderland could make this summer
Sunderland will be fully focused on bolstering their squad to be in with another chance of winning promotion next season. However, confirmation that Rigg will remain at the club could be just as big.
The midfielder was in high demand and it seemed very likely that a move to the Premier League would be too tempting – but that proved not to be the case.
Tony Mowbray will be delighted that he has been given the responsibility of aiding his growth, having previously praised the youngster.
Ahead of Sunderland’s FA Cup replay clash with Fulham in February, he said: “I’d have no fear putting him on the pitch again.
“I’ve just watched him in training and I wish you could put some of that fire in his belly into some of the other players.
“He gets wellied into everybody, he doesn’t bother about reputations, he just gets stuck in and wins tackles, puts his body in, shoots, fights. He plays like the kid in the playground.
“So why not put him on the pitch? He has qualities I really like and I know the supporters will love them too.”