Manchester United transfer news: Wayne Rooney being lined up for a ‘big dollar’ move to the MLS
Portland Timbers owner claims American sides are closely monitoring United captain's situation at Old Trafford
WAYNE ROONEY could be heading to the MLS at the end of his contract with clubs ready to throw cash at Manchester United's captain.
SunSport revealed last week that Rooney will not be offered a contract extension at Old Trafford for at least 18 months.
And according to Portland Chief's owner, Merritt Paulson, MLS sides are closely monitoring the forward's situation and are ready to throw "big dollars" to lure Rooney to America.
, Paulson said: "I would argue he still has some good soccer ahead of him.
"I think he would be a great signing for MLS - 100 per cent MLS would be attractive for him.
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"Keeping in mind that is a very talented footballer, who has quality soccer ahead of him, you are not talking about a 34 or 35-year-old.
"I get excited about the impact he would have in the MLS more than a guy who is coming in later in his career.
"The MLS is offering significant money. There were conversations with some guys who are as big a name as Rooney recently.
"Orlando City had some high profile discussions with some players - guys in his age range. There are some big-dollar numbers that have been put out.
"China is a factor, but also players need to determine where they want to play and what is going to be the best for their legacy and lifestyle - where they want to live.
"I think America compares really favourably - I wouldn't want to play soccer in Beijing right now. I am not saying that because I don't like China but the air quality issue is something they have to deal with in sport which requires fitness."
Rooney still has four years left on his massive £300,000-a-week contract but United are reluctant to increase the wages of the ageing England international who turns 31 in October.
United boss Jose Mourinho has warned Rooney that his place in the side isn't guaranteed with an increase in competition after the high-profile signings of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba.
The MLS has already attracted the likes of Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo in recent years.