Chelsea have been linked with a move for Manchester United’s want-away striker Wayne Rooney.

The England international has reportedly requested to leave the Premier League champions after nine years at Old Trafford; something that has alerted a host of clubs including the Blues, Arsenal and Bayern Munich.

The revelations came just hours after the news that Sir Alex Ferguson will end his tenure as manager, with David Moyes appointment being confirmed yesterday.

The England international’s future at United has been under scrutiny throughout the second half of this season, with doubts originally being raised following his absence from the starting line-up of United’s Champions League last sixteen second leg against Real Madrid.

The former Everton man is also said to be frustrated at being played out of position, with Robin Van Persie being used as the clubs first choice centre forward.

Meanwhile, the club are preparing for their crucial tie with Aston Villa tomorrow lunchtime, where three points would all but secure qualification for next season’s Champions League.

Victory would see Chelsea move six points clear of fifth place Tottenham Hotspur with far superior goal difference.

Eden Hazard and Victor Moses are both doubtful for the game, with Frank Lampard expected to start as he looks for the goal which will equal Bobby Tambling’s record of 202 for the club.