Rooney ‘Attracted’ By Chelsea Move

Wayne Rooney’s showdown talks with David Moyes are expected to take place today, with stories already circulating that the striker may be on his way out of Old Trafford. 

Despite his superb goalscoring record and collection of title wins, Moyes will know that selling Rooney may not be the disaster it would have been for United when it looked like he was on his way out of the exit door three years ago. Unlike then, Rooney won’t command interest from rivals Manchester City and even if he did, there’s zero chance of the new boss letting him go there. Moyes knows that the fans have by-and-large lost interest in Rooney’s petulance and many would be more than happy to see him leave. Should Moyes decide to sell the player he sold to United nine years ago, then there’s expected to be no shortage of suitors, with Chelsea leading the way according to reports.

The Guardian notes:

Although several clubs have been tracking the unsettled England striker, it is understood that Rooney is most attracted by the prospect of joining Jose Mourinho, a coach he has long admired, at Stamford Bridge.

United have maintained their stance that Rooney would not be allowed to leave for another English club, but a planned massive bid from Roman Abramovich may prompt the player to break the impasse and seek a move to the capital.

Arsenal and Paris St-Germain will also be monitoring the progress of the meeting between Moyes and Rooney, the first following the start of pre-season training. That meeting is expected to take place on Tuesday. Rooney and Moyes spoke after the Scot’s appointment was announced, but only now can they seek a resolution to what could become the transfer story of the summer.

A Chelsea move for Rooney may actually suit everyone all round, United could free up money for a bid for another striker, one who’s not alienated the fans, while the Pensioners will get the forward they need. Many fans may be reluctant to sell a Rooney to a domestic rival, but if it funds a bid for a Robert Lewandowski or even a Crisiano Ronaldo- we can dream- then it could well be something we can all live with.