EVERTON INSISTENT OVER ROONEY
Everton have insisted that they intend to keep Wayne Rooney, amid increased speculation that the pugnacious talent is on his way to Manchester United.
The 18-year-old is set to be offered new terms by the Goodison Park outfit, who are desperate to retain his services.
However, following his string of wonderful displays at Euro 2004 - potential bidders are hovering around, with United and Chelsea seemingly leading the chase,
Roman Abramovich´s Blues - who look set to land Steven Gerrard from Liverpool in the next few weeks - would be willing to meet Everton´s demands of near £50 million - but Old Trafford is thought to be Rooney´s preferred destination, should he leave.
United are believed to be limiting any deal to £30 million, but that may yet be enough to persuade Everton to part with their prized asset.
However, chief executive Trevor Birch has reiterated that the club are looking to tie Rooney down.
" We will be sitting down with Wayne and his agent to offer him a new contract to stay at Everton. We do not want him to leave," said Birch.
Rooney´s manager David Moyes - credited with playing a huge part in the youngster´s astronomical rise - added: " I can categorically state we are not interested in selling Wayne.
" I don´t know how many times I have to say it. We have had no contact from any other club about him."