Sir Alex Ferguson Keen To keep Rio Ferdinand As Testimonial Is Confirmed

Sir Alex Ferguson has reiterated that he wants Rio Ferdinand to stay at Manchester United after it was confirmed that the defender has been handed a testimonial.

Ferdinand, who moved to Old Trafford from Leeds for £29.1m in 2002, is due to be out of contract this year and there has been speculation he could move abroad.

However, with his testimonial game expected to take place at the start of the next season - no opponent has yet been confirmed - it appears Ferdinand could be ready to commit himself to United for another year.

"I have spoken to Rio," said United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"I would imagine the best thing for him would be to stay but at this moment in time he is more concerned about getting an opponent for his testimonial game.

"But we want him to stay and I am sure his representatives will be talking about that with (chief executive) David (Gill)."