Manchester United Transfer Rumors: Old Trafford Execs Open To Selling Wayne Rooney If Red Devils Qualify For 2014-2015 Champions League

Though it certainly does not appear that Manchester United will claim their second-straight Premier League title, the club and first-year manager David Moyes still have a strong opportunity to finish in the top 4. Currently sitting seventh in the competitive 20-team table, Man U has made it a priority to finish inside the first four since those positions qualify for next season's UEFA Champions League. While the focus at Old Trafford has been on earning points and victories, transfer rumors continue to circulate around England with United serving as one of the most monitored teams.

David Moyes holds high interest in upgrading his midfield unit since the Red Devils have been pounded by injury and lackluster play in that area for most of the season. While Borussia Dortmund star Marco Reus has been linked with a possible move to England, United executives feel strongly about current Chelsea mid Juan Mata. Mata has grown unhappy with his role in Jose Mourinho's system, leaving open the possibility that a deal could be tabled from Old Trafford and proposed to those at Stamford Bridge. Despite the club's strong desire to improve, other reports indicate that Wayne Rooney -- who has been linked with a departure from Old Trafford in the past -- could be on the move if United qualifies for next season's UCL.

According to The Daily Star, if Manchester United finishes in the top four of this year's Barclays Premier League, the club would be willing to sell long-time Red Devils striker Wayne Rooney as opposed to holding onto him next season and risking a free departure. Rooney's current £250,000 a week contract expires at the end of next season but if the club reaches the UCL for the 2014-2015 campaign, United higher-ups would explore the shopping of Rooney as opposed to returning him next season where they could lose him via free transfer following the completion of the schedule.

Through 22 Premier League matches Manchester United finds themselves 14 points behind table-leading Arsenal who hold a total of 51 points. With 37 points, the Red Devils are six points shy of fourth place Liverpool, who trail Chelsea by six points for third place in what has become a three-team race between Arsenal, second place Man City and the Blues.