Rooney signs for Man Utd in £27m deal

Wayne Rooney, whose performances at the Euro championships copper-fastened his reputation as the hottest young talent in European football, has been bought by Manchester United for £27 million.

The deal, which was struck just before the transfer window closed at yesterday lunchtime, saw 18-year-old Rooney sign up to the Old Trafford outfit until June 30 2010.

Man Utd coach Sir Alex Ferguson said he was "very excited" at having recruited the best young player this country has seen in the past 30 years.

"Everyone is delighted by this signing,” he added.

David Gill, Chief Executive of Manchester United PLC, said: “We are delighted to have reached an agreement for Wayne. He will be a tremendous asset to Manchester United and undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him.”

Rooney made his debut for Everton on the opening day of the 2002/2003 campaign and scored the first of his 16 Premiership goals against Arsenal at the tender age of 16.

The Toffees striker became the youngest ever England international in February 2003 when he came on as a substitute against Australia at Upton Park. He went on to become the youngest player to score for England at the age of 17 in September 2003 against Macedonia.

The teenager, who is expected to begin full training within weeks following the foot injury he received at the Euro finals, said that it had been a big wrench to walk away from the club he has supported all his life but it was a decision he knew he had to make.

“It was difficult leaving because I’ve supported Everton all my life. Having played for Everton for two years made it even more of a difficult thing," he said.

"Manchester United came in for my signature and I knew that I wanted to further my career, I wanted to play in the Champions League, so I think Manchester United is the right club for me to do that."

The fee payable to Everton is £20 million – half due now, with half due on 1 August 2005. In addition there are contingent payments to Everton over the next five years up to a maximum of £7 million, dependent on club success, the player renewing his contract and his appearances at international level.

(gmcg/sp)