NEWCASTLE are reportedly hoping that prospect Chris Rigg’s family ties will help them sign him.
The midfielder made his debut for Sunderland in the FA Cup last weekend despite his tender age.
GettyChris Rigg, 15, made his debut for Sunderland in the FA Cup Third Round match against Shrewsbury Town[/caption]
Rigg, 15, is wanted by Newcastle as they look to add more potential talents to their squad.
However, after being given a clear route to first-team football with rivals Sunderland, Rigg will have a tough decision.
The Black Cats can continue to aid his development, but the Magpies are likely able to offer more money and the prospect of Premier League football.
As he is under 16, Newcastle would not have to pay a transfer fee to acquire him.
But Sunderland would be given a fee decided by a tribunal because they have developed him.
And the Magpies think they have one advantge to signing him, as Rigg’s dad has been revealed to be a supporter of the St James’ Park side.
Journalist James Copley told The Roar podcast: “We do know that Chris Rigg comes from a sort of mixed family in terms of Sunderland and Newcastle allegiances.
“I understand that his Dad is a big Newcastle fan so there’s always that sort of possibility and draw.”
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This will be a boost to the Magpies as Manchester United have also been interested in the youngster.
Sunderland’s head of professional development phase, Graeme Murty, has insisted that Rigg still needs to better his understanding of the game.
He said: “It’s more about increasing his understanding of himself, his game and the game as a whole.
“We don’t want him just to understand how we would like him to influence the game, but he’s an international now so it’s understanding how international teams play.
“It’s understanding how to impact the game both with and without the ball, so then making sure we keep a real keen eye on his development and make sure there are no areas missed.
“There are times, for example, when he can scan better away from the ball.
“As you move up a level that becomes imperative because you get less time on the ball so you need to know your options earlier.
“We sit down, go through a debrief for him and work from a bespoke programme to make sure hopefully all his development needs are met.”