Wayne Rooney staying at Manchester United after snubbing China transfer

Wayne Rooney has ended speculation over his future by confirming he will be staying at Manchester United.

Rooney’s agent reportedly flew out to China on Wednesday in an attempt to negotiate a move away from Old Trafford.

The Chinese Super League transfer window remains open until early next week, leading to suggestions the England international was set to leave Old Trafford.

However, United’s all-time leading goalscorer issued a statement to the Press Association signalling his intention to snub interest from the Far East.

Rooney said: “Despite the interest which has been shown from other clubs, for which I’m grateful, I want to end recent speculation and say that I am staying at Manchester United.

“I hope I will play a full part in helping the team in its fight for success on four fronts.

“It’s an exciting time at the club and I want to remain a part of it.”

Rooney has 18 months left on his lucrative Manchester United contract.

United manager Jose Mourinho had be unable to give assurances over the future of his captain when quizzed over the transfer rumours earlier this week.

“You have to ask him,” Mourinho said.

“Of course I can’t guarantee [he will be here]. I can’t guarantee that I’m here next week, how can I guarantee that a player is here next season?”

“I would never push – or try to push – a legend of this club to another destiny,” added the Portuguese coach.

“So you have to ask him if he sees himself staying in the club for the rest of his career or if he sees himself moving.

“It is not a question for me because I am happy to have him. I don’t want him to leave.”

Read More: West Ham boss thinks Rooney can still rule in Europe.

Renewed speculation linking Rooney away from Manchester is likely to resurface in the summer.

Yahoo Sport sources understand that the striker has been told he can beginning planning for life away from the club.

His agent, Paul Stretford, is expected to re-examine his options when the British transfer window reopens at the end of the current campaign.