Robson: United can't buy Rooney

Sir Bobby Robson claims Manchester United cannot afford to buy Wayne Rooney.

The former England boss was speaking after Newcastle tabled a bid of £20 million to bring the Goodison Park prodigy to the North East outfit this week.

The Toffees have since rejected the bid, but Magpies chairman Freddy Shepherd may up his offer - should the Merseysiders decide to sell before the end of the month.

Robson then revealed that he was surprised that The Red Devils had not matched Newcastle's offer to lure the youngster away from Everton.

"Manchester United can't buy Rooney. The most famous and richest club in the country can't buy him!" Robson said.

"I know Alex Ferguson would love him, so why don't they make an offer for him?

"You're talking about buying the most exciting, brilliant young player in Europe and you can't blame me for trying to bring him in.

"Whether he'll come, we don't know.

"There's money available. Now it's what we do with it. The chairman has bankrolled my judgment."

The Magpies are looking to spend the cash windfall they received following the sale of centre back Jonathan Woodgate to Real Madrid last week.

Robson added that despite the club's desire to sign Rooney, Newcastle are keen to find a suitable backline replacement for the departed Woodgate.

"The possible purchase of Rooney will not stop us bringing in a centre half," he added.

"We're aware of what we've lost and we're fully aware we need a replacement and we're working on that, but you will appreciate it's not easy.

"We're looking for a genuine quality player, someone who can play in The Premiership and who doesn't have to be long-term."