Arsenal Transfer News: Wenger Says Gunners Can Afford Wayne Rooney

By Joseph Dempsey /

The Sun. And the Gunners boss is looking to deal the Premier League champions a second blow by insisting he has first option if Barcelona decide to sell midfielder Cesc Fabregas - a target for United. Rooney looks like he's on the way out at Old Trafford over uncertainty surrounding his role at the club, with manager David Moyes hinting the striker would have to play second fiddle to Robin van Persie. The unsettled England international is reportedly looking for £200,000-a-week in wages if he moves, something of which Wenger says his club can afford this summer. The Frenchman would love to turn the tables on United a year after they swooped in for Robin van Persie. Wenger said:

€œIt happened to us last year and it can happen to them. €œRooney is under contract and has two years to go so it€™s United who make the decision. €œBut we would not have a problem with the wages of Rooney.€
The Arsenal chief also refused to rule out a move to re-sign former captain Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona, but believes he is staying at the Nou Camp - for another season at least. He said:
€œCesc has decided to stay one more year at Barcelona. €œWe have the clause in his contract to have the chance to buy him back so we would be on alert if that happens.€
In spite of Wenger's claims, it would appear Chelsea are the favourites for Rooney's signature this summer. The Blues yesterday had a bid for the 27-year-old forward rejected.

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