Everton 'considering' increased Rooney bid

Wayne Rooney will not be in the stands at Old Trafford when Everton meet Manchester United tomorrow – the day before the transfer window closes.

The injured England striker was not at Goodison Park for his side’s win against West Brom yesterday and club officials confirmed he will not watch the Bank Holiday lunchtime clash.

United put in an increased bid for the 18-year-old yesterday but are waiting to hear if it has been accepted.

An Everton spokesman said today: “The situation remains the same. We have had a second offer and it is being considered and we’ve had no increased bids.”

Rooney hit out at Everton today for the response to his transfer request last week.

Fans at Goodison jeered the absent teenager during the 2-1 win against Albion after the striker demanded a move from the club.

Rooney said: “I am absolutely gutted at what is happening here. It is clear it’s time for me to leave Everton.

“I’m disappointed at some of the things Everton have said, especially considering I know the truth.

“All clubs sell players, even Manchester United and Arsenal.”

United are prepared to pay in excess of £23.5m (€35m) for the player who is yet to score 20 goals in club football.

The Croxteth-born player has scored 17 goals for the Toffees since arriving in the Premiership spectacularly two years ago.

One of his first eye-catching performances was actually at Old Trafford when his side held Sir Alex Ferguson’s men until the 86th minute but were defeated by three late goals. However, if Rooney returns to Manchester to sign for Ferguson then it will be after the game.

Even if he is not signed before the transfer window shuts, he seems unlikely to stay at Goodison given his relationship with the club and the crowd. He has also received negative press reports recently regarding his personal life while recovering from a broken fifth metatarsal in his right foot.