There is a “big chance” of Rio Ferdinand leaving Manchester United in the summer when his current contract ends, with the 34-year-old seriously considering a move from Old Trafford.
The defender has told friends he has no intention of retiring and is weighing up his future at United, who he joined from Leeds United in 2002 for a then record £30 million, with a move abroad the most likely option should he depart.
One choice could be a lucrative deal to play in China, though nothing is being ruled in or out.
Alex Ferguson recently stated that he believes Ferdinand can continue at United for a few more seasons. “I think Rio can play for two or three more years,” the manager said. “He is not as quick as he was but that is not a big issue for me.
“His experience is important and there is no reason he can’t stay on. I didn’t even realise his contract was up.”
But Ferdinand has since told Inside United: “The best thing I can do is to look at it at Christmas, and then again in the summer, to see how I’m feeling and go from there. But hearing the manager say things like that definitely puts the spring back in your step.”
Guardian Service
