Manchester United are yet to open talks with Wayne Rooney's representatives about a new contract. Rooney is in his best form for years and, with only 20 months left on his £220,000-a-week contract, United are moving into a critical period if they want to retain him.
The Mail on Sunday says any negotiations could be scuppered this week by the launch of Sir Alex Ferguson's autobiography, which may well reopen the well-chronicled rift between them.
Sir Alex's autobiography is expected to repeat the former manager's claims that Rooney asked for a move last season, something that the player feels was a misrepresentation of a conversation the pair had when he was expressing his frustrations about playing in midfield.
However since then he has established a good relationship with new manager David Moyes and is thriving under his regime. He is also producing some of his best football in an England shirt.
United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward has said that keeping Rooney is key for United and indicated that he will be offered a new, long-term deal this season. Rooney's excellent form is making the matter ever more pressing.
