Rooney was reportedly approached by DC United about a move last year but decided to stay with EvertonGETTY IMAGES
Everton F Wayne Rooney is in "serious talks about joining DC United this summer," according to sources cited by Steven Goff of the WASHINGTON POST. Rooney has a "year left on his contract" with the EPL club, but reports in England have said he has "grown frustrated." DC United would "have to pay a transfer fee or negotiate a free move." Talks between Rooney’s representatives and DC United "accelerated in recent weeks." A source said that DC United has a 50% chance of "acquiring him during the MLS transfer and trade window, which will open July 10." DC United "approached Rooney last year as well, but he decided to remain in England." His salary demands would "undoubtedly make him the highest-paid player" on DC United. The team "carries one of the smallest payrolls in the league but, with the anticipation of increased revenue" from Audi Field's opening this summer, the club is "planning to increase spending." Sources said that DC United has also "targeted big names such as Mexico’s Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez, Argentina’s Carlos Tevez and Italy’s Mario Balotelli." The club has "lacked star power for a number of years," and with Audi Field opening July 14, DC United "seems intent to add one or two marquee players soon" (WASHINGTON POST, 5/9).
NOT SO FAST: USA TODAY's Martin Rogers writes should DC United acquire Rooney, it will "surely be trumpeted as a further sign of MLS’ growth and significance," but in "truth, it would be a step backward." MLS "still has a reputation, both domestically and in Europe, as being a haven for aging stars who are past their use-by-date." It is a "tag that is not entirely fair, but it’s sticking for now and adding Rooney would apply another layer of adhesive." It is "understandable that DC United would want to make a splash." With the opening of Audi Field, getting a "star name to generate extra buzz is a natural desire." But Rooney "isn’t the right choice." The days in which an audience "would turn up just to see a European veteran and be content with a wave and an autograph are gone." The crowds "want to see a winning team, not a single superstar." DC United has "floundered of late -- it was one of the worst teams in MLS last season and is at the foot of the Eastern Conference again this year." If the club "wants to win, there are better ways to spend the money" (USA TODAY, 5/9). Freelance soccer journalist Richard Buxton tweeted, "Rooney joining the MLS is a logical move that should’ve happened this season in truth." But Bleacher Report's Gaby Kirschner posted, "Imagine watching teams like Atlanta boss the league and then deciding to solve your problems with a 32-year-old Wayne Rooney" (TWITTER.com, 5/9).
