Transfer Rumours 2013/14

SportsDirect.com, owned by Newcastle owner Mike Ashley, claims "low-level" talks have taken place between the Magpies and Rooney's agent, although an official offer is yet to be lodged.

Rooney recently stunned his Old Trafford employers for a second time by requesting a transfer. Sir Alex Ferguson claimed the England international was fed up with being left on the bench for important matches.

Regarded as one of the best forwards in Europe, Rooney has been linked to Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, although the latter recently revealed he is not on the club's radar.

The SportsDirect.com source is quoted as saying: "Newcastle see Wayne as their ideal player. He's a strong centre-forward, would relate to the fans and would be a massive boost to the club's brand name.

"Low-level conversations have already been held between Newcastle and Rooney's agent, though the two clubs haven't spoken directly yet."

He's still a very good player, he has the same amount of goals+assists combined in the league as Mata this season.

Newcastle signing Rooney would be a clear return to their old transfer strategy of signing older players with big names for more than their contributions justify.

Would be quite funny seeing them chuck out their recent history of sensible transfers and return to their old ways.