Wayne Rooney’s Manchester United career is nearing the end, with the club captain expected to depart at the end of the season.
The rumour mill was in full swing in recent weeks over Rooney moving to the Chinese Super League on a deal that could have made him the highest paid player in the world.
The 31-year-old is still contracted beyond next season and has in the last week reiterated his desire to remain at Old Trafford.
While Rooney secured his name in folklore by becoming United’s all-time leading scorer this year, he has struggled for regular first-team football.
The veteran has fallen down the pecking order behind Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Anthony Martial, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Marcus Rashford. Rooney was also an unused substitute in United’s EFL Cup final victory over Southampton at Wembley on Sunday.
Jose Mourinho has made it clear he is happy for the club legend to remain but it seems unlikely Rooney will be used as anything more than a squad player. While a move to China has its financial benefits, the England international still has something to offer at the top level and he will certainly not be short of suitors.
A move back to his boyhood club, Everton, certainly offers a level of romanticism and could be a deal that suits both parties. While the relationship between Rooney and the Toffees has been turbulent since he departed Goodison, it has certainly improved in recent years, with Rooney even making an appearance for the club during Duncan Ferguson’s 2015 testimonial match.
Perhaps surprisingly, the possibility of a Rooney homecoming has not being met with overwhelming excitement from Evertonians. Age and potential wages are viewed as a concern, as is the fact Ronald Koeman is building a very good squad – maybe Rooney is not seen as required.
But if the price is right, it should be explored.
Whatever decision Rooney makes, he will leave Manchester United with a CV glittering with individual awards and team success. What is left for Wayne Rooney to achieve at club level? Maybe winning a trophy with the club he loves would be a good way to bow out.
sydster
Guest
As an Everton fan since my incubator days, if this guy comes back, the club is void of ideas for its future
Joe
Guest
I reckon if the Everton owner wants him then he will get him. He is loaded with cash!
Andy
Guest
a million a week would make the culture shock easier. Manchester United wouldnt sell him to Everton anyways, Everton dont have the money nor the will to even think of spending as much money as United would demand.
Tigranes
Guest
I can't imagine Rooney ever going to live in China - it would be too much of a culture shock for the bloke.
Fadida
Guest
Agree with the above. He's no longer good enough for the EPL, not on wages over 50k
Brian
Guest
Everton aren't too bad, maybe Celtic he could definitely still tear up the SPL
luke
Guest
Everton shouldn't bother. Rooney carried on kissing the Man U badge in front of the Everton fans at Goodison. They shouldn't welcome him back just because Man United don't want him.
Mick
Guest
Everton should do the deal provided Rooney is happy to accept wages of 50K a week.
Shaun
Guest
Agreed! Go to China for 2 years then come home and retire.
Steve
Guest
I actually don't think Rooney would get a game at Everton. He would be a squad player there as well.