Barcelona Consider Player-Plus-Cash Offer for Rooney - Report

Barcelona are reportedly considering a player-plus-cash offer for Wayne Rooney, with Manchester United target Thiago Alcantara and €12m (£10m) moving in the opposite direction.

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with the Spain U-21 captain for some time now, while recent reports suggested the Blaugrana are weighing up a summer move for the England international. And Catalan newspaper Sport has now reported the strong possibility of a swap deal on their front page.

Rooney is reportedly keen on a move to Barcelona, after falling out of favour with former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and consequently the United supporters. Thiago is also understood to be open to transfer away from the Camp Nou, due to a lack of regular fist team action, despite proving himself to the Blaugrana chiefs.

The report claims Barca would be willing to offer £10m plus the Spaniard in exchange of Rooney. The La Liga champions know United can trigger Thiago's release clause by offering €18m (£15m). The Catalans did not do themselves any favours by benching the midfielder for the majority of last season, as a few more minutes of game time could have seen his buy-out fee rise to a massive €90m (£76m).

Barcelona already have Pedro Rodriguez, Alexis Sanchez and David Villa competing to accompany Lionel Messi and Neymar in the three-man attack for next season. However, it is understood that the Spaniards consider Rooney as a player who could fit into their style with ease.

"Rooney is precisely the type of attacker that would fit perfectly into the system. Defence starts from the front at Barca and Rooney works harder than anyone. His first touch, movement, control and vision are phenomenal and if he comes on the market then the club are certain to try to sign him," The Sun quoted a Barca source as saying.

Arsenal, Chelsea, PSG and Real Madrid are also understood to be keen on Rooney. Meanwhile, The Mirror reports new United manager David Moyes wishes to hold on to the forward and has a place for him in the squad next season.