Mourinho returns in Rooney race

Getty ImagesWhere does Wayne Rooney's future lie? Manchester United or Chelsea?

Wayne Rooney is back on Jose Mourinho's hit-list as the striker is yet to be tied to a new contract by Manchester United.

Chelsea tried to sign the England forward in August, but had their efforts thwarted by United. However, with news emerging that Rooney is still waiting on a new contract offer from his current employers, the Daily Mirror reports Mourinho is now back in the frame as the January transfer window looms.

Rooney's existing deal expires in 18 months, and it is said Chelsea will use that time to lure the 28-year-old to Stamford Bridge, preferably before the 2014 World Cup commences.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have joined in the race to sign highly-rated French defender Kurt Zouma after Arsene Wenger's scouts delivered a glowing endorsement of the Saint Etienne youngster. Chelsea and Manchester City are already in the hunt for Zouma, who is serving a long-term suspension for a terrible tackle, but the Gunners could beat their rivals to the punch, according to the Daily Mirror.

Finally, FOX Sports in South America claim coveted striker Leandro Damiao has signed a deal with Brazilian side Santos. Heavily linked with clubs in England such as Tottenham last year, the 24-year-old has dropped out of the national team in recent times. However, it is understood Damiao believes a 41 million pound move from Internacional to Santos will help him fire leading into the World Cup.