Report: Wayne Rooney Set for D.C. United Move; Marco Silva Has No Everton Plans for Star
Everton forward Wayne Rooney looks to have been pushed out of the door at Goodison Park by new manager Marco Silva, having delayed a decision on a proposed move to MLS franchise D.C. United to hear if he would have a Toffees future under the Portuguese coach.
But, according to the Daily Mirror, Silva has 'made it clear' that 32-year-old Rooney does not have a place in his plans next season. As such, the boyhood Evertonian is free to leave.
That is because former Hull and Watford boss Silva is looking to the future as he assumes control on Merseyside. It is said that Norwich youngster James Maddison, who is valued at up to £25m by the Canaries, has been identified as Rooney's potential successor.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, formerly of Coventry, enjoyed a strong season in the Championship in 2017/18, registering a total of 23 combined goals and assists in what was actually only his first full campaign at that level.
As for Rooney, the Mirror says that it is with reluctance he is accepting that his time at Everton and career in the Premier League in general are both over.
The former Manchester United and England captain is believed to have already agreed a three-year deal with D.C. United in principle and even visited the American consulate in Belfast recently to process a visa application to live and work stateside.
It would appear the only thing left is for a pay off from Everton to compensate the final 12 months of the two-year contract he signed at Goodison Park upon his homecoming last summer, something agent Paul Stretford is said to be working on.
Rooney will leave English football after scoring 281 club goals over the last 16 years.
