Manchester United, the current champions of the English Premier League, have rejected a bit for Wayne Rooney from rival club Chelsea, according to CNN.
The English striker didn't take much joy as Manchester United rolled over the competition en route to a twentieth League Title since his role had been reduced from super star to contributing player as Robin van Persie became the focal point of the offense. Van Persie scored 30 goals last season while Rooney had a fairly pedestrian 12, according to CNN.
Rooney made it clear that he did not like his new role as he issued a transfer request toward the end of the year; a request that was denied.
"We refused it," legendary manager Alex Ferguson said after his final home game. "He should go away and think it over. He's not happy being taken off a couple of times this season, but Rooney in top form wouldn't have been taken off."
The Daily Mail is reporting that initially Chelsea offered $15.1 million as well as the services of either David Luiz or Juan Mata for Rooney, although Chelsea now denies that they ever offered a player. Then the second offer Chelsea made was for $33.4 million straight up and was not only rejected by Manchester United but Chelsea was told to not make another offer.
"Although the terms of the offer are confidential, for avoidance of doubt and contrary to what is currently being briefed to the press in Sydney (where Manchester United are currently on tour), the proposed purchase price does not include the transfer or loan of any players from Chelsea to Manchester United," a statement from Chelsea read.
David Moyes, who is taking over as manager for Ferguson, made comments that left Rooney "angry and confused" according to ESPN.
"Overall, my thought on Wayne is that if for any reason we had an injury to Robin van Persie we are going to need him," Moyes said. "I want as many options as possible."
Kaveh Solhekol, a reporter, told Sky Sports News that Rooney will not be happy playing behind anyone.
"Rooney believes he is at the peak of his career and has no intention of becoming a squad rotation player or by playing second fiddle to anyone at Old Trafford," Solhekol said. "He believes he has nothing left to prove after nine successful seasons - yet that is what is being suggested by reports in the media which have interpreted the club's statement as meaning he's currently on trial for the coming season."
