The Swansea City manager is preparing his side for the visit of Manchester United on Saturday, and says he has been a long-term admirer of the England captain’s versatility.
"I've thought for a number of years Rooney will end up in midfield with his range of passes," said Monk.
Wayne Rooney is closing in on Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time England goalscoring record
"I can remember Scholes doing it, starting out as a forward and dropping back into midfield and Rooney is the same.
"But he's such a threat in both areas, he has the quality to make the midfield tick and score goals."
After being deployed in midfield in recent weeks, Rooney returned to the more familiar role of striker for United’s last outing – a 3-1 FA Cup victory at Preston North End.
He responded by scoring his first goal in ten games, and Reds boss Louis van Gaal is now expected to keep him in attack at Swansea.
"I can see why he's played where he has but I probably expect him to play in a more forward role on the weekend," added Monk, who masterminded Swansea's 2-1 win at Old Trafford on the opening day of the season..
Swansea manager Garry Monk
"They have such a big squad and array of talent they can change it up to many different combinations, so we won't know until the day.
"We've prepared for different scenarios and that's all we can do.
"They have another option to go to [Marouane] Fellaini and it's a big strength of his but he can play a bit as well.
"We have an idea of possible formations and teams but you don't want to over-complicate things by giving too much information.
“He has the quality to make the midfield tick and score goals”
Garry Monk Swansea manager
"We want to concentrate on what we do best, as unless we're at our best level it doesn't matter what the other team does because you're not giving yourself a chance."
Wayne Rooney will next be in action for England on 27 March as the Three Lions welcome Lithuania to Wembley Stadium for a Euro 2016 qualifier.
Tickets for that game are on sale now.
