Manchester United’s transfer plans for 2025 are already underway with one midfielder on the agenda for Ineos.
Summer 2024 saw a clear shift in transfer intent from Manchester United, aligning with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s desire to focus on signing the ‘next Kylian Mbappe’ rather than big names themselves.
We have seen this during the summer transfer window with Leny Yoro being signed from Lille, additionally, Sekou Kone is considered a first-team signing – with Chido Obi-Martin also expected to be integrated upon confirmation of his arrival.
This transfer policy is very exciting to see and should bear fruits for United along with multiple U18s and U21s who have been immense already this season, showing they have a future at the club.
But now in January, Ineos could be looking to add another wonderkid to the ranks and on Saturday he showcased precisely why.
Chris Rigg shines for Sunderland
Chris Rigg is the star of Sunderland right now, outshining Jobe Bellingham in the process, and on Saturday he was amongst the goals.
The 17-year-old bagged a back-heel goal for the Black Cats against Middlesbrough, a strike which secured three points and pushed Sunderland to second in the league table.
This came with Rigg starting in the attacking midfield position – a role which is far from his best as he is more naturally a number eight.
Rigg not only scored but boasted a high pass completion rate (89 per cent), with his 36 touches in the game.
After being likened to United legend Bryan Robson, it is pretty clear to see why as he is an all-action midfielder – as good on the ball as he is without it, something his seven duels won makes clear.
| Stat | |
| Passing | 17/19 (89%) |
| Tackling | 1/4 (25%) |
| Clearance | 1 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Defensive actions | 8 |
| Recoveries | 3 |
| Duels | 7/11 (64%) |
His goal showcased great composure and confidence to pull off a shot like that in such a high-stakes game.
Following full-time, Rigg’s captain Luke O’Nien raved about the ability of the Sunderland No.11.
“He is unbelievable, the things he does in training, it is a pleasure to watch, it is mesmerising. One of our best players and he is doing what he does.”
It is therefore hardly a shock that Manchester United want to sign Rigg, in a deal which we have reported to cost between £20m and £30m.
Where Manchester United can use Rigg
If Rigg is signed in January, it seems likely that it would be a deal done with an initial loan back to Sunderland where he can continue being an important player in their promotion charge.
But after this, with Rigg developing so rapidly, the transfer business of Ineos points toward a change in how the midfield sets up.
Rigg is seen as a Jude Bellingham-like talent and therefore United will have to offer him assurances on game time to see him progress.
Therefore there is something very exciting about a midfield trio comprising Rigg, Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte at the base.
This would see two English wonderkids both under 20 alongside the 23-year-old Ugarte – solving the midfield conundrum for years to come – along with Sekou Kone.
An exciting midfield three, with equally enticing options breaking through behind them. Ineos could soon have their very own midfield prodigy who promises to become a world-beater.
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