Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to lodge a summer bid for Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

The 27-year-old has been touted as a possible departure from Old Trafford after soon-to-be-retired manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that the forward has asked to leave the club.

While the likes of Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain have been suggested as potential destinations, website SportsDirect News, which is owned by Newcastle supremo Mike Ashley, has claimed that the England international could be on his way to St James' Park.

"Newcastle see Wayne as their ideal player," a source told the website. "He's a strong centre-forward, would relate to the fans and would be a massive boost to the club's brand name.

"Low-level conversations have already been held between Newcastle and Rooney's agent, though the two clubs haven't spoken directly yet."

United's Premier League rivals Chelsea have also been linked with a swoop for the wantaway striker.