Newcastle United have missed out on highly-rated Sunderland teenager Chris Rigg despite initial confidence that a deal could be struck for the 16-year-old. Rigg, who made his senior Black Cats debut in the FA Cup last season, this week signed a two-year scholarship deal at the Academy of Light.
Newcastle, along with Manchester United, tracked Rigg's progress across the water in recent months and were hopeful of persuading him to jump ship with a lucrative offer. However, the Hebburn-born midfielder, whose father is a Newcastle supporter, opted to stay put.
Chronicle Live understands Rigg was initially open to joining the Magpies but Sunderland have presented a pathway to the senior side for the teenager. The academy graduate wants first-team football and believes he will get that on Wearside in the coming months.
