Crystal Palace Sets Sights on £30m+ Midfield Prodigy with “Roy Keane-esque” Traits

Crystal Palace has entered the competition to acquire a highly-regarded midfielder, with a price tag exceeding £30 million this summer, according to recent reports.

Palace Intensifies Summer Transfer Strategy

As Crystal Palace approaches a stable mid-table finish, the club faces potential departures of key players like Marc Guehi, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Adam Wharton. To maintain competitiveness, the Eagles may need to be proactive in the transfer market for the upcoming season.

Chairman Steve Parish is targeting significant signings, including an attempt to lure Marcus Rashford to Selhurst Park. Additionally, the club is exploring midfield options, with Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham identified as a potential target following his impressive Championship performances.

However, Bellingham isn’t the only Sunderland talent on Palace’s radar. The i Paper reports that the club is also pursuing Chris Rigg, whose future at Sunderland may be uncertain if the Black Cats fail to secure promotion.

Rigg has attracted attention from several Premier League clubs, including Everton, Liverpool, West Ham United, and Tottenham Hotspur, who are closely monitoring the 17-year-old’s progress. The midfielder has established himself as a crucial player for Sunderland this season.

Acquiring Rigg won’t come cheap, with Sunderland expected to demand a fee significantly higher than the £30 million Leeds United received for Archie Gray last summer, highlighting the young player’s value to the club.

“Phenomenal” Rigg Draws Comparisons to Roy Keane

Football scout Ben Mattinson highly praises the Sunderland prodigy, describing him as a “phenomenal” player capable of brilliant moments. Former manager Tony Mowbray noted Rigg’s impressive off-the-ball work, comparing his tenacity to that of Roy Keane.

Ex-teammate Marco Gabbiadini commended Rigg’s tackling ability, stating, “He is quite tenacious. He doesn’t shy away from tackles or challenges. That has been a standout feature of his game.”

With 38 Championship appearances and four goals at just 17 years old, Rigg is clearly destined for greatness. Crystal Palace’s interest in signing him is exciting news for the club’s supporters.

However, given the fierce competition for Rigg’s signature, including interest from potential Premier League champions Liverpool, it would be a significant achievement if Palace could secure the deal.