Rooney acknowleges Jones quality

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney appears to have welcomed the prospect of Blackburn defender Phil Jones moving to Old Trafford.

Jones is reportedly undergoing a medical with the Barclays Premier League champions after speculation linking him with a number of clubs.

Liverpool and Arsenal were also thought to be interested in signing the 19-year-old England Under-21 international.

It is thought a deal for Jones, who has made a huge impression at Ewood Park since his debut in March last year, would cost United £15-£17m.

Rooney wrote on Twitter: “Phil Jones is a good young English player. One of the toughest defenders I played against last season. Can play midfield too.”

Rooney was quick to add, however, that he has no knowledge of whether a deal is imminent or not.

He added: “I don’t know if Phil Jones is signing for us, just saying he is a good player that’s all. I haven’t got a clue if he is signing or not.”

Jones had been due to join the England Under-21 squad today to travel to Denmark for the European Championship.

He would face stiff competition for a first-team place at United from the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling.