Wayne Rooney’s agent in Beijing to discuss Chinese Super League switch, say reports

Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney did not travel with the squad for Wednesday’s Europa League last 32, second leg at St Etienne as media reports in Britain continue to link the forward with a multi-million pound move to the Chinese Super League.

Several British media outlets have linked the 31-year-old with a move away from United with his agent, Paul Stretford, said to have flown to Beijing in order to engineer a lucrative switch before the Chinese transfer window closes on February 28.

One potential destination for Rooney is Beijing Guoan, who have been ominously quiet in their winter transfer dealings so far.

A potential move to the Far East for United’s record goalscorer has been the source of ongoing rumour for weeks, but the latest development suggests club manager Jose Mourinho may have given the green light for a transfer.

Asked about Rooney’s future on Tuesday, Mourinho said he did not want the striker to leave but said the decision was in the player’s hands.

“You have to ask him,” said the Portuguese coach. “I can’t guarantee that I’m here next week, how can I guarantee that the player is here next season?