The announcement was made by Fabrizio Romano in a social media video where he declared: "Breaking news in the world football... Here we go! Manchester United, Everton and England legend Wayne Rooney has signed an agreement with The Overlap. The deal is completed and signed."

Romano continued with excitement, "Rooney will join his friends and ex-team-mates Gary Neville, Roy Keane and the rest of the team and will be making his debut very soon. Wayne Rooney to The Overlap, here we go!".

Confirming the news himself, Rooney later stated on Tuesday morning: "I'm excited to announce that I will be joining my good mate Gary Neville and the team at The Overlap to appear on the channel across some of their brilliant shows on YouTube and the podcast. I can't wait to get started - head over and subscribe now!".

Watch all the Premier League and Champions League drama unfold on TNT Sports

Previously sacked as manager of Birmingham back in January after a brief stint that saw only two wins in 15 matches, Rooney's move from play-off hopefuls to battling relegation in the Championship marks a significant shift in his career trajectory.

Before taking the reins at Birmingham, Wayne Rooney had managerial stints with DC United and Derby following his retirement from professional football in January 2021. The former Manchester United striker boasts a remarkable tally of over 350 goals and has lifted 12 major trophies, including five Premier League titles.

Since his departure from the Blues, Rooney has ventured into the world of sports punditry. He joined ITV's team for their broadcast of Manchester United's narrow 1-0 FA Cup triumph over Nottingham Forest, and subsequently provided analysis on Sky Sports last Wednesday when his old team Everton secured a win against Liverpool in the Merseyside derby.

Rooney was poised to make his first appearance on Match of the Day last month, but an unfortunate back injury incurred while on holiday forced him to cancel. Taking to social media, he expressed his disappointment: "Gutted not to be making my debut on the iconic @BBCMOTD show tonight, it's something I have wanted to do since I was little.

"Unfortunately I have sustained a painful back injury during a holiday with my family but I look forward to being part of the team in the near future. Good luck to @GaryLineker and the guys for tonight's show and see you soon."