Everton reject Rooney bid

Everton have rejected Newcastle's £20 million bid for Wayne Rooney.

Sky Sports News revealed earlier on Monday that Newcastle had tabled £20 million for the England international.

Newcastle have money available to strengthen their squad after the sale of Jonathan Woodgate to Real Madrid.

Magpies chief Freddy Shepherd had hinted that the club's fans would be surprised by how they spent the Woodgate money and they have tried to lure Rooney to Tyneside in a sensational deal.

Newcastle made the offer as they wanted to test Everton's resolved to hang onto their talisman.

Newcastle are the first club to table a firm offer for the teenager despite the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea being linked with his services in the past.

Everton's board have flatly turned down the bid and it now remains to see whether Newcastle up their offer for Rooney and whether or not it sparks a bidding war for the skilful hit-man.

"I can confirm that we have received a £20 million offer for Wayne Rooney from Newcastle United. This bid has been turned down," Everton head of media Ian Ross told the club website.

Newcastle chairman Shepherd has told Sky Sports News that the £20 million cash offer will stay on the table for Rooney for the time being.