Rooney believes the 29-year-old Dutchman would be a great addition to the squad at Old Trafford.

"Of course he's a player that I admire," said Rooney.

"He's a fantastic player. He's been amazing for Arsenal over many years. Last season was probably his best season of all. He scored a lot of goals.

"If he does come here he would be a great addition to the squad."

When asked if he and Van Persie could form a good partnership, the England international added: "I'd like to think so - but you'd have to ask the manager about that.

"There's a lot of forwards here already with myself, Welbeck, Chicharito and Berbatov, who's still here.

"So there's a lot of forwards fighting for a place."