Sir Alex Ferguson stated United have been interested in the 18-year old since he was just 14 years of age and insisted he couldn't miss out on the England international.

Rooney cost the Red Devils an initial £10 million that could rise up to £30 million depending on future success, appearances and England caps plus a 25% sell on clause.

What Sir Alex Ferguson had to say about the Rooney deal:

"If Newcastle hadn't come in with an offer, we probably wouldn't have come in."

"We didn't think he was available. But once we knew Everton were talking to another club, we had to do something."

"His age is a great thing and Manchester United couldn't afford to miss him."

What the players had to say about Rooney:

"I am extremely excited by the prospect of a fit Wayne Rooney playing for Manchester United. In terms of his performances for England and in training, he has been quite spectacular. The two games against Turkey stood out for me.'' - Gary Neville.

"Everyone knows Wayne is an amazing talent and the thought of him pulling on a United shirt is frightening. He proved himself at Euro 2004 and I don't know many clubs who wouldn't mind him in their side. He is an incredible player who has a huge future ahead of him. To do what he has already done at just 18 years old is incredible. Anyone who has seen him play knows what a talent he is. It really excites me to think he will be playing at United. He will be a great asset to the club and to play with him will be fantastic." - Ruud van Nistelrooy.

"We're all delighted to be honest. Hopefully he can give us that extra edge so we can push on for the league and Champions League. We saw in Euro 2004 that little bit of magic he has. He can turn games on his own as he did when he was playing just behind Michael Owen where it's hard for defenders to pick him up. He showed just what a magical player he was and we'll be looking forward to him doing the same for us. I think he's different to Alan Smith, Louis Saha and Ruud van Nistelrooy who are more direct strikers and can play up there on their own. I think Wayne can float in behind like Paul Scholes and do a fantastic job." - John O'Shea

What the fans had to say about Rooney:

"He can lead the United frontline for the next decade. A phenomenal prospect, a phenomenal talent." - Irish Red.

"Having arguably the two biggest talents at Euro 2004 in Ronaldo and Rooney playing in the same team is a fantastic prospect." - The Mad Hatter.

"Rooney is fresh new talent who plays like a champion and now he's playing with champions" - Shockwave.

"Rooney-an exceptionally talented player...His reputation was enhanced by a trio of dazzling performances at Euro 2004...The richly promising striker has made his way to the best-Man U" - No Angel.