The suspect, who is from the Scarborough area, was detained after a gang targeted the Manchester United striker's family home last Wednesday.
The break-in attempt happened while Rooney played in his testimonial match at Old Trafford, watched by his wife Coleen and their sons Kai, Klay and Kit.
Police went to the England captain's £6m property in Prestbury when the alarm was reportedly triggered.
Officers searched the area but were unable to find the offenders.
Police said on Tuesday they had arrested the 24-year-old and that he was in custody.
