Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney will reportedly make his desire to leave the club official by submitting a transfer request this week.

The England international has been linked with a move away from the club all summer, but United have insisted that he is not for sale.

According to The Mirror, Rooney will now force through a move by handing in an official transfer request.

It is believed that the news will force Chelsea, who are Rooney's preferred option, to increase their offer for him. Arsenal are also reported to be monitoring the situation, although United would prefer to sell him abroad.

Rooney reportedly played in a behind-closed-doors friendly for United yesterday as he returned from a hamstring injury.