Wayne Rooney ‘poised to join ITV I’m A Celebrity’ as reality show’s ‘biggest ever signing’ after Coleen’s stint

A source told The Sun on Sunday: “Wayne is in advanced talks for I’m A Celebrity and if they secure him, he’ll be their biggest signing in the show’s history.”

His wife Coleen, also 40, proved a huge hit when she appeared on the programme in 2024, ultimately finishing as runner-up behind McFly’s Danny Jones.

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ITV declined to confirm the reports. A spokesperson told GB News: “Any names suggested for I’m A Celebrity are just speculation.”

According to those close to the former striker, he wants to take part following encouragement from his four sons Kai, 16, Klay, 13, Kit, 10, and Cass, eight.

A source claimed: “Wayne wants to show their sons what their dad can do and has joked he’ll be giving Coleen a run for her money.”

The competitive Rooney, who has previously admitted he despises losing, is expected to throw himself fully into the Bushtucker Trials.

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His wife Coleen is said to be fully behind the move and has already been passing on advice about surviving camp life.

“She’ll be backing him all the way and has been giving him hints and tips about life in the jungle,” the source added.

Coleen is expected to travel to Australia to support her husband during filming, bringing along the couple’s three youngest children.

However, their eldest son Kai may remain in the UK owing to his football commitments, having secured a scholarship with Manchester United earlier this summer.

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When Coleen took part two years ago, Wayne publicly declared himself “proud” of her efforts and encouraged viewers to vote for her to face trials.

Though no fee has been disclosed for Wayne’s potential appearance, Coleen reportedly earned £1.5 million for her 2024 stint, suggesting the former England captain’s deal could be even bigger given claims he would be the programme’s biggest-ever signing.

Several other well-known names are also reportedly being lined up for this year’s series, with former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson, Gavin & Stacey actress Joanna Page, and Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson all said to be in the frame.

Wayne has carved out a growing television career since leaving football management, becoming a regular BBC pundit and winning praise for his commentary during this summer’s World Cup coverage.

Friends believe the jungle would showcase his natural humour, with one saying: “Wayne is incredibly funny… He went viral after saying the half-time show was c**p but that’s just Wayne.”

Fans will also get a closer look at the Rooney household when The Real Rooneys, a new Disney+ docuseries, begins streaming on Thursday.