Wayne Rooney's uncertain future: who could sign Manchester United striker?

Telegraph Sport runs the rule over the possible destinations for Wayne Rooney if his rift with Sir Alex Ferguson fails to smooth over at Manchester United.

Red or dead: Wayne Rooney will spark a transfer battle if he fails to resolve rift Credit: Photo: AP

Barcelona

Rooney has talked of his respect for Lionel Messi. They would be a devast-ating double act. Don’t underestimate the Nike factor — Rooney is a key Nike player and Barca are a Nike-sponsored superpower. Player exchange would appeal to United who would require a stellar name in Rooney’s place.
Prospects: 4/5

Real Madrid

Spain is the likeliest destination and Rooney would relish being reunited with Cristiano Ronaldo at the Santiago Bernabéu. Jose Mourinho has spoken of his admiration of the United forward and United have happily traded with Real in the past. Real have plenty of players who could be part of the deal.
Prospects: 4/5

Manchester City

No club can match the spending power of Sheikh Mansour, but City must address their spending and wage structure to meet Uefa regulations. Adding Rooney’s wages would lead to half a squad knocking on Roberto Mancini’s door. Rooney in light blue would be staggering.
Prospects: 3/5

Chelsea

The outsiders. Roman Abramovich has withdrawn from the top end of the transfer market and United’s asking price could be prohibitive. With Rooney’s wife, Coleen, pursuing a TV career, London would be a positive and she might just have a big say in where the Rooneys go next.
Prospects: 2/5

Merseyside

Forget the red half of Merseyside, despite the new ownership at Anfield. That move will never happen. Everton lack the financial muscle to compete, but there is an appetite on both sides for Rooney to end his career back where it all started. Don’t rule out an homecoming in five or six years.
Prospects: 0/5