Wayne Rooney Reportedly Lined Up by Chelsea for New January Transfer Bid

Fire up the rumour mill once more: Chelsea are reportedly planning a £35 million move for Wayne Rooney in the January transfer window.

Jose Mourinho, who watched on excitedly as Fernando Torres ripped Manchester City apart in his side’s recent 2-1 win, clearly feels the London club still lack firepower up front.

Despite failing with a £30 million summer bid for Rooney—who is expecting a major pay rise when his contract runs out in 18 months—the Portuguese manager is ready to test Manchester United’s resolve with an increased offer, per Harry Pratt of the Daily Star:

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And that’s why Chelsea, who failed to land Rooney in the summer with an offer of £30million, are refusing to give up their pursuit of Jose Mourinho’s top target.

Should the uncertainty surrounding Rooney continue into the January window, the Blues plan to crank the pressure right up - by making an improved £35m bid.

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Rooney famously fell out with former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson at the tail end of last season. He recently suggested working under David Moyes has provided "a new lease of life," as reported by Paul Wilson of The Guardian.

Despite suffering with a severely gashed head earlier in the season, Rooney has strung together an impressive run of form for both club and country.

He has notched six goals and three assists in a total of 10 appearances for the Red Devils, as confirmed by Who Scored, while single strikes helped England to a place at next summer’s World Cup with crucial victories over Montenegro and Poland during the recent international break.

Mourinho’s trio of forward options—Torres, Samuel Eto’o and Demba Ba—have just two Premier League goals between them this season.

The former Real Madrid boss’ call to let Romelu Lukaku join Everton on loan has been scrutinised by many, especially as the Belgian powerhouse has netted five goals in as many appearances for the Toffees.

The acquisition of Rooney would undoubtedly strengthen Chelsea’s claim as title contenders. His natural physique and willingness to do battle can complement the gliding talent of stars such as Eden Hazard, Andre Schurrle and Oscar.

Even so, the 28-year-old’s potential arrival would almost certainly spell the end for Torres, who is enjoying a return to form.

Chelsea’s endless array of attacking players continue to give Mourinho a selection headache each week. Should Rooney exchange Old Trafford for Stamford Bridge, the manager’s ability to satisfy his entire squad would be strained further still.

However, it seems unthinkable that Moyes would allow United's star performer this season to join a rival, so Chelsea better prepare a bid significantly higher than the quoted £35 million fee.

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