…but Wayne’s off to the USA

WAYNE ROONEY has been told by Marco Silva he is free to leave and start a new career in MLS, although Everton will sweeten his departure with the offer of a job for life after his playing days.

The former England captain, above, is discussing personal terms with DC United over a move to Washington that will involve Everton picking up some of the year remaining on his £140,000-a-week contract.

There had been reports that Everton boss Silva, and new director of football Marcel Brands, would be prepared for Rooney to stay if he decides to see out the last year of his contract.

But, although Brands insists Rooney will have the option of returning to Goodison after his playing days are over, it appears that new management wish to move on without him.

Silva said: “It’s something not in my hands, something that started before. It’s Wayne’s decision, with the club, before I came. Before everything is done I will talk with Wayne and what I hope is that everybody works out this situation – him and the club – because he’s a club legend and for me that’s everything.”

Rooney, 32, was already in advanced negotiations before Silva and Dutchman Brands were even appointed to their roles.

Brands said: “From what I understand, the clubs are close to having an agreement. I understand he wants to make the next step in his career to MLS like a lot of big players did.

“When Wayne Rooney wants that, a club like Everton has to help him in that deal. If he wants to come back the door will always be open for him.

“I hope that when he comes back from the States he will come back to Everton, whatever role he wants, and we will help him build a new career after his football career.”