Manchester, UK Manchester United are in the final stages of an ambitious transfer deal that would see Amad Diallo move to Sunderland AFC while the Premier League side secures highly‑rated Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg in a swap reportedly worth around €10 million plus Diallo.
Manchester United close in on Amad Diallo and Chris Rigg move, but deal hits unexpected setback
Manchester, UK Manchester United are in the final stages of an ambitious transfer deal that would see Amad Diallo move to Sunderland AFC while the Premier League side secures highly‑rated Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg in a swap reportedly worth around €10 million plus Diallo.
According to multiple reports, including from BBC Sport, the deal was expected to be wrapped up this week with medicals scheduled in Manchester for Rigg ahead of his dream move to the top flight.
United, currently navigating a transition period under new management, have been keen to bolster their creative options in midfield and on the flanks as they aim to improve on a mixed run of form this season. Rigg, 18, has emerged as one of Sunderland’s brightest talents after breaking into the first team and representing England at youth levels.
Sources inside Old Trafford suggested that Manchester United’s recruitment team view Rigg as a long‑term asset capable of influencing games at the highest level, with the teenager attracting interest from several Premier League clubs over the past year.
However, in a late twist, the move hit an unexpected setback when Rigg reportedly expressed concerns about the timing of the transfer. The young midfielder is said to be weighing up the opportunity to join a club of United’s stature against his desire for regular first‑team football, having been a key figure for Sunderland in recent seasons. Talks were paused briefly after reports surfaced that the player wants assurances over his role, with Sunderland reluctant to lose one of their standout performers without securing an immediate replacement.
Diallo set for Sunderland — but timing uncertain
As part of the complex deal, Manchester United have been in advanced talks to send Amad Diallo to Sunderland on a permanent basis. The Ivorian winger — who starred on loan at the Stadium of Light earlier in his career — was reportedly set to seal the move swiftly. Diallo had become a fringe figure under United’s current regime but remains a player of proven quality in English football.
Club officials had hoped the package would be concluded before the end of the European season, with Diallo featured in United’s plans to balance the books and rekindle his career. But sources close to negotiations now suggest that discussions are ongoing after Rigg’s hesitation, and an agreement on personal terms is yet to be finalised.
Reactions and next steps
Representatives for both clubs declined to comment on the specifics of the talks, with a brief statement from Sunderland emphasising their focus on finishing the season strongly in the Premier League.
Manchester United are understood to be confident of finding a compromise as they look ahead to the summer transfer window. United’s director of football and Sunderland’s sporting director are expected to reconvene later this week to iron out the remaining details.
Fans of both clubs will be watching closely, with many supporters hoping the two‑club agreement can be salvaged to benefit all parties — particularly given Diallo’s strong rapport with supporters in the North East from his previous spell at Sunderland.
If you want, I can create a match report version of this story or a fan reactions roundup from both club supporter bases — just let me know!
