Liverpool can repeat Jordan Henderson transfer tactic to sign 'next Lamine Yamal'

Liverpool are known for their knack of unearthing gems from across Europe, but their ability to secure top British talent is equally impressive.

Jordan Henderson is arguably their most successful domestic signing in recent years, and the Reds could be looking to emulate this success with a move for one of England’s brightest young talents. Liverpool signed Henderson from Sunderland in 2011, and their interest in the Championship club’s teenage sensation Chris Rigg could see them mirror one of their most successful transfers.

This season, only Barcelona’s Spanish star Lamine Yamal has more goal-creating actions per 90 minutes among players aged 20 or younger than the Sunderland youngster, drawing comparisons between the two talented teenagers.

The Sunderland academy prodigy played a crucial role in helping Sunderland’s Under-15 team win the Super Floodlit Cup with a 4-2 victory over Crystal Palace in the final. Rigg, who was just 14 at the time, scored a spectacular free-kick to help his side lift the prestigious trophy.

A number of Premier League scouts were in attendance, with Liverpool’s fierce rivals Manchester United showing serious interest in the dynamic midfielder, as well as Sunderland’s neighbours Newcastle. Liverpool and Everton were also linked with the young midfielder when he was just 15.

Newcastle’s unrelenting chase of the promising youngster Rigg led them to send the legend Peter Beardsley to watch the midfield prodigy during his days in youth football. Despite being born into a family of avid Newcastle fans, Rigg remained loyal to Sunderland.

Fresh off lifting the Floodlit Cup, Rigg made a seamless transition to Sunderland’s first team under manager Tony Mowbray, who gave him a sensational start in the FA Cup at just 15 years old. His introduction on the pitch was crucial in orchestrating a stunning turnaround win for the Black Cats.

Reflecting on Rigg’s remarkable debut, Mowbray said: “He was put on the pitch because he deserves to be on the pitch. If we’d had six or seven first-team players still available he probably wouldn’t have been here today.

“But, the chance comes and everybody needs (the) opportunity. It’s fantastic for the kid that he’s done so well and hopefully pushed himself onto the fringes of helping us in league matches moving forward.”

Rigg not only etched his name in Sunderland’s history books as their youngest outfield player but also became their youngest-ever goal scorer, all within the same year. He showcased his undeniable talent by finding the net in a resounding 5-1 victory over Southampton the previous season.

His upwards journey, however, hit a snag when he sustained injuries while playing for his national team.

Despite Sunderland’s 2023/24 season ending on a low note, Mike Dodds gave Rigg his full Championship debut. The young player finished the season with three goals from 22 appearances across all competitions, all before his 17th birthday and signing his first professional contract.

In June this year, Rigg celebrated a significant milestone when Sunderland fended off interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester United by offering their most generous first contract ever to an academy graduate. One of the main reasons for the youngster’s decision to stay was the promise of guaranteed playing time, and he has thrived under Regis Le Bris this season.

The latest achievement in his burgeoning career is a winning goal in the Wear-Tees derby, his first of the season in seven appearances across all competitions. The young player is making waves in the Championship with his passing ability, tenacity in the tackle, effectiveness in pressing and his skill in retaining possession for someone so young.

Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester United have all been linked with the youngster, marking him as a player to keep an eye on this season, but the Reds will hope that Rigg follows in Henderson’s footsteps en route to Anfield.