Chelsea goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has described Manchester United's Wayne Rooney as "phenomenal" as the Blues attempt to sign the striker.

It was revealed on Wednesday that Chelsea had made an official bid for Rooney, which was rejected by United, but Schwarzer is delighted with the club's intent to bring in world-class players.

The 40-year-old told Sky Sports News: "Rooney is a phenomenal player and an asset to any side.

"I think that over the years, Chelsea have shown a tremendous amount of ambition and that just continues now by bidding for one of the top players in English football.

"The club always wants to continue to go forward and that is what is very exciting about being here."

Schwarzer moved to Chelsea earlier this month on a free transfer from Fulham.