Wayne Rooney wants out of Manchester United.PA Sport says it is understood in an informal chat with Sir Alex Ferguson a couple of weeks ago, Rooney suggested it would be better if he made a fresh start away from Old Trafford.

United have rejected the idea out of hand and insisted: "Wayne Rooney is not for sale."

However, it is thought Rooney has been unimpressed at being asked to play out of position during the latter weeks of the season and with Robin van Persie impressing in his debut campaign, wondered whether he had a future at United.

Ferguson's retirement announcement yesterday may change Rooney's thinking, however.