Kai Rooney, the 16-year-old son of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney, has responded to reports that he has been offered a contract by the club. In an Instagram story, he wrote: "don't listen to mail" followed by three laughing face emojis, seemingly dismissing a Daily Mail article on the matter.
The Sun first reported on Thursday that Kai was among 14 talented youngsters presented with new terms by United. The proposed deal would reportedly be a one-year scholarship, converting to a three-year professional contract when he turns 17, with an annual salary of around £50,000 plus a signing-on fee. However, the Rooney family have not yet approved the deal.
Kai has spent several years in United's academy, playing as an attacker like his father. Wayne Rooney, who holds the club's all-time scoring record, expressed pride last month after watching Kai play for the under-18s in the FA Youth Cup against Derby County. "It was a proud moment and I'm delighted for him," he said.
Kai's mother, Coleen, has emphasised that they have not pressured their children into football. Speaking in September 2024, she said: "We've never pressured them into even playing football. We've always just let them decide what they want to do."
Wayne Rooney has also praised the interest shown by first-team manager Michael Carrick and his coaching staff in the academy, noting that it gives a lift to players and parents alike.
