Wayne Rooney will be facing some backlash from his Manchester United teammates for his attempt to force his way out of the Old Trafford club.
Sources with close knowledge of United have explained there is an increasing antagonism towards the English striker, particularly with senior players Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs and Patrice Evra expressing their unhappiness at his stance, which they view as being a blatant attempt to strengthen his own position without much regard of the unsettling effect it is having on the team.
Rooney has made it clear that he wants to be played consistently in his preferred position and sources say Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho would provide a guarantee that Rooney gets what he wants.
Chelsea had a second bid turned down at the weekend and are preparing a third offer, but with United loathe to sell to one of their direct rivals for the title, the Londoners may have to break their own transfer record to get him.
Chelsea may go as high as £35m for Rooney, but United are likely to ask for a 'premium' as the Blues are clear title rivals - and could also say 'no' again.
A dressing-room source said: "It is now clear that Wayne has made up his mind about leaving United.
"It has nothing to do with David Moyes. He simply feels that he needs a new challenge.
"The talk around the club has been that he will officially ask for a transfer in the next week."
United are flying to Sweden today to prepare for a friendly with AIK before returning to England for Rio Ferdinand's testimonial against Sevilla and then the Charity Shield clash with Wigan.
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