In a shocking report to come out today, French club Monaco have set their sights on Manchester United captain and striker Wayne Rooney. The Englishman recently signed a new 5 1/2-year extension on contract at Old Trafford, but Monaco are confident of being able to avail his services.
According to the reliable Telegraph, the Ligue 1 outfit were very close to signing Rooney last summer, but a deal did not materialise. Vadim Vasilyev, the club’s Vice-President, stated that despite Rooney signing a new contract, he believed that the club would ultimately find an opportunity to sign him.
“One year ago, we were discussing one of the top players of the Premier League, a top English player,” Vasilyev said. “But it was on the table. This opportunity finally did not happen, but I think one day that it will come, that it will happen.”
Despite being the longest-serving player in the Manchester United squad, Rooney’s performances this season have come under a lot of scrutiny. With the likes of Juan Mata, Radamel Falcao, Robin Van Persie and Angel Di Maria in the squad, there are many who believe that the 28 year-old doesn’t warrant an automatic place in the starting XI. Rooney is United’s joint top-scorer this season and was made captain by new manager Louis Van Gaal at the start of the season. His performances overall though, have been criticised, especially when he got himself foolishly sent off two weeks ago against West Ham United.
There have been several times in the past when Rooney has been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford. He has ended up staying put every time. United, though, have reportedly agreed personal terms with Falcao to sign the Colombian on a permanent deal following his current loan-spell. This leaves a big vacancy in the Monaco forward-line, one that they are lining Rooney up to fill.
In the past, United have managed to keep Rooney by offering him a pay-rise. This time though, with the option of a tax-free income on the luxurious shores of Monte Carlo, things may pan out differently.
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