Dougie Freedman has a long line of impressive transfer deals in his past, but the very best may be yet to come for Crystal Palace.
The Eagles have seen various low-profile names arrive at Selhurst Park under Dougie Freedman’s Director of Football tenure, only for a handful to become superstars.
Adam Wharton signed for £18m last January, being the most recent example of an exciting transfer policy of picking up young talents from the Championship and turning them into stars.
Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise also came along a similar path – and with such a success rate, it was always just a matter of time until Crystal Palace returned to the market.
Now, reports are suggesting this could come in January, with one name attracting interest from the Eagles.
READ MORE: Who is Dougie Freedman? The Crystal Palace Sporting Director linked with Manchester United switch
Crystal Palace target Chris Rigg
Romain Esse is one player from the Championship expected to be of interest to Crystal Palace in 2025 – however, Sunderland could have the real prize the Eagles want.
In the summer, Crystal Palace failed to complete a move for Jobe Bellingham after reportedly holding £20m interest.
Well according to The Sun, now the Eagles actually want Bellingham’s teammate, Chris Rigg who has exploded into a first-team player in the Championship.
The 17-year-old is the subject of £20m interest from Crystal Palace after the Eagles have scouted him on numerous occasions.
Freedman is convinced by Rigg’s ability to prove good enough for the Premier League – and could even copy last winter’s move for Wharton by swooping in January.
However, Rigg is such a talent that he is also commanding interest from the likes of Manchester United and even Real Madrid.
Rigg could end up resembling Roy Keane
Rigg is a special talent and has been described by his teammate Luke O’Nien as “mesmerising”, while also admitting that it is a “pleasure” watching the 17-year-old train.
Former Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray made the comparison, explaining Rigg’s talent to the BBC in 2023.
“He wants to win every tackle, every five-a-side, every contest he’s in, which is pretty unique in a footballer.
“I shouldn’t really say it, but it’s that Roy Keane-esque type of nastiness. He’s a nice kid, but not so much of a nice kid when he’s got his boots on and is on the pitch.”
If Freedman pulled off this move, he would deserve legend status at Selhurst Park.
