Ronald Koeman has confirmed that Everton would be interested in signing Wayne Rooney – if he becomes available.

Rooney spent eight years at Everton, joining as an 11-year-old in 1996, before moving to United for £27million in 2004.

He scored 17 goals in 77 games for the Toffees, before winning multiple Premier League titles and one Champions League among a collection of trophies with United.

But the captain faces an uncertain future at the club, as he is no longer a first-team player under Jose Mourinho.

Koeman has confirmed that, should the 31-year-old seek a move in the summer, his former club would be interested.

“I still think Wayne Rooney is playing at a high level and he made a good choice staying at Manchester United and in the Premier League,” he told Sky Sports.

“He still has two or three years in front of him to play at the highest level. What will happen at the end of the season, I do not know. In my opinion he’s one of the players who can make Everton stronger than they are now.

“It’s all about what the player likes, what Manchester United need to do and we are not involved in that project. Every player who we feel can make the team stronger is welcome at Everton.”