TABLOID TALK

Last updated : 15 February 2004 By Editor

We had some knowledge ourselves from pretty reliable sources just before Christmas. Didn’t happen and don’t know why but now The Sunday Mirror and The People pick up on it.

This from The Mirror:

Sir Alex Ferguson is planning an amazing &L&20million raid for Wayne Rooney.

Sunday Mirror Sport has learned Everton fear Rooney, 18, will leave in the summer.

And Manchester United boss Ferguson is favourite to land the striker.

A friend of Rooney’s said:

"I will be extremely surprised if Rooney isn't wearing a United shirt next season.

"It has become common knowledge among his close friends and family members that something will happen in the summer.

"Naturally, Wayne will be heartbroken to leave Everton. But his relationship with David Moyes is questionable, the club are facing a battle to beat the drop and he realises that a move to a club with so much talent will almost certainly improve his game."

And a well-placed Everton official told us:

"The indications are that Wayne will be sold in the summer.

"The club are facing a dilemma with Rooney. They have no money to strengthen the team and he is their only saleable asset.

"He's had a wretched season for his club. He is first choice for England but not for Everton.

"If you put him in a classy side he would be fantastic."

Also, The People reckon that Diego will defo go this summer. Probably to Valencia.