Man Utd scouts spotted watching Championship wonderkid tipped to follow in the footsteps of Jude Bellingham - but Red Devils must fight Real Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool for 17-year-old's signature

According to The Sun, United sent scouts to watch Sunderland star Chris Rigg in his side's 3-2 win at Middlesbrough on Monday. The report adds the Red Devils were interested in signing the 17-year-old in January this summer, but Liverpool, Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Real Madrid are also 'admirers'.

The report claims the attacking midfielder, who turns 18 in June, is the best player to come out of the Championship since former Birmingham City midfielder Jude Bellingham. Incidentally, Rigg is already reportedly valued at £25 million ($31m).

This season, Rigg has scored four goals, made one assist, created 32 chances, and helped Sunderland stay in the automatic promotion hunt; with the Black Cats currently fourth in the Championship.

Rigg's Sunderland future may depend on how they fare this season. If they don't go up, a transfer exit could be on the cards. If they get promoted, the teenager could stay with the Mackems.