WAYNE ROONEY tried to bring former Manchester United players Jesse Lingard and Ravel Morrison to DC United.
DC manager Rooney went back to his old Premier League stomping grounds in search of reinforcement for the 2023-2024 MLS season.
DC United manager Wayne Rooney wanted to sign Jesse LingardRex
Rooney also wanted to bring Ravel Morrison back to DC UnitedGetty
Rooney failed in his attempt to bring both former Manchester United playersGetty
According to the Washington Post, Lingard held talks with the American club this summer after becoming a free agent following his departure from Nottingham Forest.
The versatile midfielder was seeking a guaranteed long-term contract and that led to negotiations hitting a snag.
Rooney also cited salary cap issues during a recent press conference and confirmed DC United were unlikely to add any free agents.
The 30-year-old had been spotted training across from Inter Miami’s DRV PNK Stadium as he revealed he was “considering all options”.
Lingard told Sky Sports: ‘I’m considering all options. I’ve never ruled out any team or club out, so for me it’s just picking the right team and it’s got to be right for me.
“I just want to play football at the end of the day and that’s all I want to do.”
Rooney also tried to bring United cult hero Morrison back to his team during the summer.
The playmaker joined DC last year and amassed two goals in 14 appearances.
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The 30-year-old also trained with Rooney’s side during the summer as both sides searched for an agreement.
The former England international said Morrison has been “brilliant” but the club initially declined to bring him back for a second season.
Therefore, the MLS giants bought out the Jamaica international’s $850k (£675,000) contract this summer.