West Ham is reportedly among several Premier League clubs interested in signing the 17-year-old talent. However, their efforts seem futile as Rigg is only considering offers from teams competing in European tournaments, according to GiveMeSport (November 21).
Rigg has already made history as Sunderland’s youngest-ever outfield player, earning the title of “history maker” from Carlton Palmer (GiveMeSport). His path to the Premier League appears inevitable.
Whether he stays in the North-East or joins one of the other clubs vying for his signature, a move to West Ham seems unlikely unless significant changes occur.
West Ham United cannot sign Chris Rigg with Julen Lopetegui at the helm
West Ham finds itself closer to the relegation zone than to European qualification, reflecting the fierce competitiveness of this Premier League season, where only seven points separate 14th-placed West Ham from third-place Chelsea.
While it’s still mathematically possible for the Hammers to mount a comeback and secure a European spot, under Julen Lopetegui’s leadership, a more likely outcome appears to be a drop to the Championship. The Spaniard has failed to live up to the “elite” expectations fans had when he replaced David Moyes, leaving his position tenuous—saved only by the cost of a “hefty payoff.”
Lopetegui’s struggles are casting a shadow over West Ham’s future, with the club becoming a less attractive destination for talents like Rigg, whose interest seems to align with more successful clubs. Had the Hammers capitalized on their early-season promise and secured a spot in European contention, they might have had a stronger case to offer Rigg a starting role in Claret and Blue, potentially outmaneuvering Manchester United.
Instead, Rigg appears destined for a top Premier League side when he leaves Sunderland, a pattern West Ham may face repeatedly as long as Lopetegui remains at the helm. It might be time for David Sullivan to reconsider the club’s direction and explore alternatives in management.
In other West Ham news, Galatasaray has reportedly made a transfer decision regarding Hammers forward Michail Antonio.
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