Mancini cools Rooney talk
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has moved to end speculation linking want-away Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney to the club.
The English Premier League is abuzz with the news that Rooney, considered England's most talented footballer, wants to leave Old Trafford.
With Rooney having only 18 months left on his existing contract, United will now likely be forced to sell their prized asset -- worth around 50 million pounds (57 million euros) -- as quickly as possible before his value depreciates.
If he is not sold in the January transfer window, he could, under FIFA regulations, technically buy out the remaining year of his contract next summer for around five million pounds, leaving United with nothing.
City have emerged as the favoured destination for Rooney, but Mancini insists the move is not on.
"No. Never," said Mancini when asked if contact has been made with Rooney.
Mancini echoed the thoughts of Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, who said Tuesday he believes Rooney will ultimately stay at the club he joined from Everton as an 18-year-old.
"Rooney is a great player but I think he'll stay at United," said Mancini. "He's a good player, he's an important player for United."
Pressed on whether he would be keen to sign the striker, Mancini added: "He is a United player. It's not correct to speak about that situation."
Comments