Everton Reject Man Utd/Newcastle Rooney Bids

By Matthew Jones
August 26 2004

Everton have rejected Newcastle's improved bid for teenager Wayne Rooney as well as turning down Wednesday's offer from Manchester United. The Magpies' had an offer of £20m turned down earlier this week and upped the bid to £23.5m, but this has been turned town.

Manchester United's £20 million bid has also been rejected.

Everton boss David Moyes has claimed that it would take a fee of at least £24 million (most likely £30 million) to tempt Everton to sell thier young England ace.

Moyes said:

“Bobby Robson is quoted as saying that Wayne’s the most exciting young centre forward there is around. If that’s the case then he’s going to have to pay the most exciting price for him.

"Didier Drogba has gone to Chelsea for £24 million, so if he wants to be in the market then he’s going to have to pay far greater than that price.

"He is English and if you want to buy English you have to pay a higher premium."

Everton's Head of Public Relations, Ian Ross, added:

"Newcastle United have submitted an increased offer for Wayne Rooney - one which has been turned down

“The bid submitted by Manchester United has also been rejected.”