19 June 2023 , 22:15
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D.C. United manager Wayne Rooney has brutally shut down reports he is trying to bring England international Jesse Lingard to Major League Soccer.
Rooney took the reins of the Washington-based franchise a year ago and is currently enjoying his first full season in charge. With former Premier League stars like Christian Benteke lining up for United, Rooney has the team sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference.
Following seven-time Ballon D’Or winner Lionel Messi ’s sensational move to Inter Miami, rumours have been rife surrounding which stars could also make the move stateside now the European transfer window is open. Lingard is one such name now he is a free agent.
Lingard was released by Nottingham Forest after failing to score or assist in his 17 Premier League appearances for the club, who narrowly secured survival in the top flight. He is reportedly weighing up his next move and has spoken of his desire to end his career in the United States in the past.
While MLS may be on the cards for Lingard - who has 32 England caps - before his career is over, he is unlikely to join D.C. United. Speaking at his press conference prior to the clash with Real Salt Lake, Rooney denied any reports linking his team with Lingard and insisted he has no interest in his former Manchester United teammate.
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“The Jesse Lingard [rumour]?” Rooney said. “I don't know where that has come from. From my point of view we have no interest in signing him.”
Jesse Lingard celebrated when Nottingham Forest secured Premier League survival - but his influence waned as he struggled for form (Getty Images)Lingard played alongside Rooney at Manchester United for six years before the now-D.C. United manager left Old Trafford for Everton. Back in 2021, Rooney labelled 30-year-old a "fantastic player" but he has no interest in signing him these days.
After denying the links to Lingard, Rooney suggested his Washington outfit are looking to add more quality in the transfer window. When asked if there will be any potential new signings for his team, the legendary former striker said: “We are obviously looking, there is a few players we have identified who we will work hard to try and bring in and there is things we can move round to try and do that.
“We have to be at our best, work at our best and we have to find the best way to free money up to bring players in.”