Rio plans long United stay

Ferdinand wants to end career at Old Trafford

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 9th March 2008

Rio plans long United stay

Ferdinand: Committed

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Rio Ferdinand is hoping to sign a new deal that will keep him at Manchester United for the rest of his career.

Ferdinand became the world's most expensive defender when he moved to Old Trafford from Leeds in 2002, and he quickly established himself as a key player in Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

He agreed a new four-year contract in 2005, although negotiations were protracted and there was briefly some speculation about his future with the club.

Ferdinand is looking to avoid such complications this time and put pen-to-paper on a long-term agreement.

"I want to finish my career at United and the plan is to sign a contract that will enable me to do that," he explained in the Sunday Mirror.

Happy

"I don't want to go over what happened before. I think it's obvious that I am happy at United.

"It's important to me that I can secure my future here. It's important for everyone to get themselves sorted out and I think the club are trying to tie down lots of players.

"That bodes well for the future of the club. It's a fantastic place to play, the fans are brilliant and I can't think of anywhere else I'd rather be."

Ferdinand has revealed that the process is already underway, and he is anxious for the matter to be resolved as soon as possible.

He said: "The club have made contact with my agent and we'll go from there, but hopefully it will be done quickly."