Kai Rooney is generating significant excitement at the Manchester United academy.
Much of this attention is due to his father, Wayne Rooney, who remains the all-time top scorer for Manchester United.
Wayne retired in 2021 after leaving United in 2017, with an impressive record of 253 goals in 559 matches that still stands unmatched.
Among current squad members, aside from Marcus Rashford—whose future seems uncertain with his loan at Barcelona—club captain Bruno Fernandes has the next highest tally, with 103 goals in 313 games.
Now, another Rooney may be on the verge of joining the senior squad, as 16-year-old Kai Rooney has received a new contract offer.
The Sun reports that he has been offered a formal one-year scholarship with United, starting after he completes school this summer.
After the scholarship, it can transition into a three-year professional contract, with an annual salary of £50,000, plus a signing bonus.
Kai is one of 14 promising teenagers at the academy being offered new contracts, showcasing a wealth of talent coming up through the ranks.
Jacey Carrick, son of the current United caretaker manager Michael Carrick, is also among those receiving a new deal to continue at Carrington.
A source close to the situation stated, “The group is very strong, and most of the boys, including Kai and Jacey, have been offered deals.”
They added, “This opportunity allows them to go into full-time football employment after school, and once they turn 17, they will achieve professional status.”
“While they still have a long way to go, it is a point of pride that the club believes they have a chance to succeed.”