Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on Sunderland’s Chris Rigg, a highly rated young midfielder attracting plenty of attention. But what makes him such an exciting prospect, and why are Spurs keen on securing his signature?
We reported a few days ago that Tottenham Hotspur are actively tracking Sunderland’s Chris Rigg as they look to bolster their midfield this summer.
However, Spurs are not alone in their pursuit. West Ham United are also showing strong interest in the teenager, with the Hammers weighing up a potential move. But who exactly is this promising youngster? Let’s take a closer look at his profile.
Who is Tottenham Hotspur’s transfer target Chris Rigg?
Christopher John Rigg (born 18 June 2007) is a 17-year-old English professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for EFL Championship side Sunderland.
Rigg has been with Sunderland since his primary school days, progressing through the ranks before making his senior debut in January 2023.
Chris Rigg’s breakthrough in senior football
With Sunderland struggling with injuries, Rigg was named on the bench for their Championship clash against Blackpool on 1 January 2023. Just a few days later, he found himself in the squad again for an FA Cup third-round fixture against Shrewsbury Town.
On 7 January 2023, Rigg made his professional debut in that very match, coming on as a substitute for Édouard Michut in a 2-1 victory.
Chris Rigg’s first goal and career milestones
Rigg made history on 8 August 2023, scoring his first competitive goal in an EFL Cup tie against Crewe Alexandra. This milestone saw him become Sunderland’s youngest-ever goalscorer, as well as the youngest goalscorer in the competition’s history.
Following his debut, he earned a promotion to the first-team squad, though he initially trained only once or twice a week as he was still in school.
Chris Rigg’s international career
Rigg has already represented England at multiple youth levels. He captained the Under-16 side before earning a call-up to the Under-17 squad at just 15 years old.
He made his England Under-18 debut in a 1-1 draw against Belgium on 11 October 2023. Later that year, he featured in the 2023 FIFA Under-17 World Cup, starting in England’s 2-1 win over Iran.
In May 2024, he was included in the England squad for the UEFA European Under-17 Championship, captaining the team throughout the tournament.
Most recently, on 19 March 2025, Rigg made his England Under-19 debut in a 2-0 UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualification win over Wales.
Chris Rigg’s playing style and versatility
Rigg is a dynamic midfielder who combines technical ability with tenacity. He isn’t afraid of a tackle and possesses a strong left foot that makes him a valuable asset in possession.
His leadership qualities, evident from his history of captaining England at youth level, further add to his appeal.
Although he initially played as a right-winger, he has since transitioned into a central midfield role, where he has flourished alongside Jobe Bellingham, the younger brother of Jude.
Chris Rigg’s Positions
Main position:
- Central Midfield
Other positions:
- Defensive Midfield
- Attacking Midfield
Played as:
| Position | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attacking Midfield | 25 | 2 | 3 |
| Central Midfield | 17 | 3 | – |
| Defensive Midfield | 10 | 1 | – |
| Right Midfield | 6 | 1 | – |
| Right Winger | 5 | 1 | 1 |
| Centre-Forward | 3 | – | – |
| Left Midfield | 2 | 1 | 1 |
Chris Rigg Championship stats all-time
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
| Championship | 55 | 6 | 1 | 3,299′ |
Chris Rigg’s stats this season
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Yellow cards | Minutes Played |
| Total 24/25 | 36 | 4 | 1 | 8 | 2,630′ |
| Championship | 34 | 4 | 1 | 7 | 2,500′ |
| FA Cup | 1 | – | – | 1 | 60′ |