Transfer Centre

Sam Allardyce: "Wayne Rooney has not asked to leave"

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 11 May 2018

Everton manager Sam Allardyce says that Wayne Rooney is free to leave Goodison Park should he wish, but insists that the Englishman has not yet asked to join DC United.

Sam Allardyce has confirmed that DC United are interested in signing Wayne Rooney, but the midfielder has not yet formally asked to leave Everton.

Reports emerged Stateside earlier this week suggesting that Rooney had opened discussions with the Major League Soccer side over a move later this month.

The former Manchester United striker's return to Goodison Park started brightly enough but has since fizzled out, and he recently made headlines for his angry reaction to being subbed by Allardyce during the goalless draw with Liverpool.

Speaking at his final pre-match press conference of the season, Allardyce attempted to clarify Rooney's situation and revealed that the ex-England skipper is free to leave should he wish.

"My understanding is there seems to have been some negotiation along the line but as for clarity as to whether Wayne is staying or going we'll see later on," he told reporters.

"I don't get involved with anything regarding transfers in or out or negotiations but I know there appears to be an interest from DC united but where Wayne lies in it I can't tell you until I've spoken to him.

"If the player wants to go - if any players want to leave - I'm comfortable. But let's get this right Wayne Rooney has not asked to leave and neither has he had a confrontation with me.

"I don't want to make a headline 'Sam says Rooney can leave' - I mean if any player wants to leave he can leave."

Rooney has scored 10 goals in 31 Premier League appearances this season, making him Everton's leading goalscorer.