London: Everton forward Wayne Rooney will break from his family holiday to travel to Washington this week to meet new bosses at Major League Soccer side DC United, his spokesman confirmed Thursday. Rooney has reportedly agreed ‘in principle’ to a $17 million deal with the MLS club that would see the 32-year-old leave Everton, his boyhood club, just 12 months after rejoining them from Manchester United. DC United coach Ben Olsen confirmed earlier this month that the club were interested in bringing Rooney to America but said the deal ‘is not done’. Rooney was Everton’s top scorer this season with 11 goals but last found the net, December 18.
According to a report in the ‘Washington Post’ Rooney will have a ‘physical’ before being given a tour of the city and meeting with DC United managing general partner Jason Levien and general manager Dave Kasper.
Rooney would not be allowed to play for DC United until their transfer window opens July 10, but DC go to LA Galaxy July 4 where he could potentially be in the stands.
Meanwhile, the FA have put off plans to commemorate Rooney’s England career until after the World Cup. Rooney retired from international football last year as England’s all-time record goalscorer.
FA chiefs and Rooney’s representatives have discussed a special presentation to him at Wembley, with one option the game against Nigeria, but it is understood the FA are now considering an England game after the World Cup to pay tribute to Rooney.
