This archive report was first published on 6 August 2019.
Wayne Rooney, England's record goalscorer, is in advanced talks with Derby County to join the Championship club as a player-coach, according to Sky Sports News.
Derby's new manager Phillip Cocu declined to comment on the reports, but Sky Sports said Rooney was due to fly to the Midlands to discuss the details of the deal.
Rooney, 33, has two years left on his contract with MLS club DC United and has previously spoken of his desire to go into management.
Derby owner Mel Morris believes Rooney could help the club get back into the Premier League, the BBC reported.
Rooney sees the role as a chance to learn the ropes while prolonging his playing career, and is drawn to Derby's Dutch manager Phillip Cocu's coaching methods, which he believes are similar to those of his former manager Louis van Gaal at Manchester United.
Rooney could be confirmed as a Derby player and coach within days if negotiations go well, Sky Sports reported.
Derby appointed Rooney's former England teammate Frank Lampard as manager last season, but he has since joined Chelsea.
