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Wayne Rooney reveals cash-strapped Everton pushed him to move to Chelsea in 2004 because they were offering the most money... but chose Manchester United after learning of their interest because it was the 'only club' for him

Wayne Rooney has revealed Everton tried to push him to sign for Chelsea before his £27million move to Manchester United in 2004 because they were the side offering the most money.

The then 18-year-old was one of English football's hottest prospects after starring for Everton that season and also scoring four times at Euro 2004, with Newcastle joining the Blues and United in the bidding for his services.

Rooney - who would go on to become United's record goalscorer with 253 goals for the club - broke a bone in his foot in the defeat to Portugal at the tournament and was ruled out for a month, but that did not stop interest mounting.