The Guardian:
Wayne Rooney has asked for a new contract at Manchester United that, if granted, is likely to see him overtake Rio Ferdinand as the best-paid player in the club's history. His current deal does not expire until 2010 but his representatives have held preliminary negotiations with United about a wage increase to recognise his status as the club's outstanding player. Ferdinand earns £110,000 a week whereas Rooney is currently on the second tier of earners, at around the £65,000 mark.
How that is received by the Glazer family remains to be seen at a time when United's American owners are taking cost-cutting measures at Old Trafford. But the club's chief executive, David Gill, indicated yesterday that he and Sir Alex Ferguson wanted Rooney, a £20m recruit from Everton two years ago, to be tied to the club on a longer deal. "He is a key player for us and his eagerness to sign a long-term deal is great," said Gill.
The Mail:
Gill said that he was optimistic over a new contract for striker Wayne Rooney.
England international Rooney, 20, wants to extend the six-season deal he signed when he joined United in August 2004.
"His eagerness to sign a long-term deal is great," Gill said.
"I think there will be developments over the next few months.
"We want to tie him down to the club."