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Man City talks with Rooney revealed by former chief executive Cook

The England striker was open to joining his side's local rivals before deciding to sign a new contract at Old Trafford

Former Manchester City CEO Garry Cook has revealed the extent of the club's attempts to sign Wayne Rooney from Manchester United.

England striker Rooney joined the Red Devils in 2004 and his prolific displays soon saw him linked with several top sides, including their local rivals as well as Spanish giants Barcelona.

And Cook, who joined City as chief executive in 2008 and spent three years there, says Rooney was open to moving to the Sky Blues, only for United to convince him to sign a new contract and stay at Old Trafford for the long-term.