Everton could repeat their Stones masterclass with swoop for “special” £30m EFL talent

Everton’s Pursuit of Sunderland’s Chris Rigg: A Potential Repeat of the John Stones Masterclass

In the realm of football transfers, few deals have yielded as substantial a return on investment as Everton’s signing of John Stones from Barnsley in 2013. The Toffees secured the services of the then 18-year-old defender for a mere £3 million, only to sell him to Manchester City three years later for a staggering £47.5 million.

Stones’ Everton Legacy

During his tenure at Goodison Park, Stones established himself as an integral component of the Everton defense, featuring 95 times and showcasing his exceptional defensive prowess. His growth and development under Roberto Martinez’s tutelage earned him widespread recognition, with many heralding him as one of the most promising young defenders in the Premier League.

The England international’s success at Everton served as a catalyst for his subsequent move to Manchester City, where he has become an indispensable member of Pep Guardiola’s squad. Stones’ accomplishments at the Etihad Stadium, including multiple title wins and a treble in the 2022-23 season, underscore the astute nature of Everton’s initial investment.

Chris Rigg: The Next John Stones?

Rumors suggest that Everton are contemplating a similar move, targeting Sunderland’s Chris Rigg as a potential long-term investment. The 17-year-old midfielder has already become an integral part of Regis Le Bris’ Championship-leading side, featuring 12 times and scoring three goals.

Rigg’s emergence as a key player at the Stadium of Light has sparked intense interest from top European clubs, including Manchester United and Real Madrid. However, according to Graeme Bailey, Everton’s “project going forward” may hold significant appeal for the youngster.

Valuation and Potential Return

While Sunderland’s valuation of Rigg at £20-30 million far exceeds the £3 million paid for Stones, the potential return on investment remains substantial. Should Rigg develop into a top-tier player, Everton could conceivably sell him for double or triple the initial outlay.

Sunderland fan and football presenter Dougie Critchley has described Rigg as “special,” echoing the sentiments of many who have witnessed the midfielder’s rapid growth. With top clubs circling, Everton must navigate the transfer market shrewdly to secure Rigg’s signature.

Comparison to Stones

While Rigg’s playing style and position differ from Stones’, the parallels between the two deals are striking. Both involve:

1. Young, high-potential players from the Football League.
2. Moderate initial investment.
3. Significant potential for long-term growth and return.

Everton’s pursuit of Rigg represents an opportunity to replicate the success of the Stones deal. By securing the midfielder’s signature, the Toffees can:

1. Enhance their squad with a talented young player.
2. Develop Rigg into a key first-team player.
3. Potentially reap significant financial rewards through future resale.

Conclusion

Everton’s interest in Chris Rigg presents a compelling case study in strategic transfer market navigation. By targeting high-potential players from the Football League, the Toffees can create a sustainable model for growth and success.

The John Stones deal serves as a testament to the viability of this approach. Should Everton secure Rigg’s signature, they may uncover another gem, echoing the masterclass of 2013.