Manchester United are preparing to initiate the pursuit of Chris Rigg by presenting a formal offer for the talented Sunderland teenager.

Rigg’s future is set to be a significant topic of discussion at Sunderland, as the club aims to persuade the 16-year-old to sign his first professional contract at the Stadium of Light.

Last summer, Rigg agreed to a two-year scholarship deal with Sunderland. However, according to FA regulations, he is not eligible to sign his professional contract until he turns 17, which will be on June 18. During the scholarship agreement negotiation, Sunderland officials are believed to have discussed the terms of a potential professional contract with Rigg and his representatives. The club remains optimistic that the young player from Hebburn will choose to continue his development at Sunderland.

Rigg concluded the season with eight starts and 13 substitute appearances in the Championship, becoming a regular member of the first team under Mike Dodds in the campaign’s final month. Sunderland’s hope is that Rigg’s positive progress thus far will convince him to commit the initial phase of his professional career to the Black Cats.

However, although one more year remains on his existing scholarship agreement, it does not prevent Rigg from considering offers to sign professional terms with another club once he turns 17.