Wayne Rooney will leave his family holiday in Barbados to fly to Washington for talks with DC United about a move to the United States.
His Everton future remains in the hands of the Goodison Park club, but they have given him permission to speak to the MLS side.
Completing a deal is different, however, and discussions between Rooney, his representatives and DC United officials will focus on whether an agreement can be struck and whether the former England captain sees DC United as the sort of club he wants to play for and whether the area is right for his family.
At this stage, it remains essentially a fact-finding exercise rather than a firm commitment.
DC United would have to pay a transfer fee to Everton for the 32-year-old, who returned to his boyhood club last summer from Manchester United in what he believed was a long-term commitment.
Rooney — who finished the season as Everton’s leading goalscorer — is scheduled to be given a tour of the city, meet the managing general partner Jason Levien and the general manager Dave Kasper. Levien also owns a stake in Swansea City, who were relegated to the Championship.
The striker will also visit DC United’s new stadium, Audi Field, which is nearing completion and is likely to speak to the coach Ben OIsen during a whirlwind visit.
Rooney has been left
hurt and disappointed by Everton’s apparent willingness to let him leave, although he is expected to speak to the club’s new manager before making any final decision. Marco Silva is Everton’s first choice to replace Sam Allardyce, who was sacked last week.
Should Rooney sign for DC he would become the most expensive player in their 22-year history. The American club is prepared to pay him at least $5million per year through to 2020.