• Premier League

Beckenbauer expresses Bayern interest in Rooney

Germany legend Franz Beckenbauer has thrown his support behind rumours linking Wayne Rooney with a move to Bayern Munich in the summer.

Beckenbauer, an honorary president at Bayern, insists he would be "very happy" to see the Manchester United striker at the Allianz Arena next season, adding to speculation that Rooney could force an early exit from his contract at Old Trafford.

"I would be very, very happy if Wayne Rooney decided to come to Bayern Munich," Beckenbauer said. "But is this a rumour or is it true? I don't know!"

Rooney has been linked with a move to a number of European clubs, including Bayern, Real Madrid and PSG, after being left on the bench for United's Champions League defeat to Real last week.

Although Sir Alex Ferguson revealed he hopes Rooney will extend his contract with the club, doubts remain over the England international's future.

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton believes Beckenbauer's comments and rumours over Rooney's future do not reflect the Premier League leaders' attitude towards the 27-year-old.

"I think that is a bit premature [to question Rooney's future]," Charlton said. "I don't know everything that happens at Manchester United, but I know a little.

"Wayne Rooney maybe has had an injury and has not performed as well as he might have done, but that doesn't mean to say that you get rid of him.

"Sir Alex Ferguson came out and said that he had no intention of letting Wayne Rooney go anywhere. You have to abide by that and I believe it, 100%. He is a great player - why should we get rid of a great player?"

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