Chelsea give Rooney 48 hours to decide

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho remains interested in signing Wayne Rooney but has insisted the Manchester United striker must make a decision about his future within 48 hours and “finish the story”.

The Blues have had two offers for the England star, 27, rejected by United but are still hoping to agree a deal before the transfer window closes.

However, Mourinho warned: “We have 24-48 hours to close it or we move on.

“If he wants to leave, he has to say or if he has decided now that he doesn’t want to leave anymore he has to say.

“A club like us and a manager like me, we are not silly to try to get a player from a big club. We are not silly to try something if somebody didn’t start it.

“It is time for the good of everyone to finish the story. I would like that.”

Rooney featured for United as they drew 0-0 with the Blues in an uninspiring match at Old Trafford.

The player was given a rousing reception by the home fans and Mourinho believes their support could convince Rooney to stay put.

“I know the most important thing is that he played very well,” said Mourinho.

“He was a real professional. He played for the club that pays him and tried to win and he was fantastic.

“He played a fantastic game in difficult circumstances, so I praise him.

“We have to speak, but I think this club [United] must be a very special club because in every club in the world when a player wants to leave the fans give him a hard time.

“This is a special club so I think now he probably wants to stay and if he does then we will respect that decision.

“If he is not coming we will choose another player.”

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