Ferdinand signs long-term deal

Manchester United center-back Rio Ferdinand has agreed a new five-year deal that should see him play for the Old Trafford club until 2013.

Rio joined United from Leeds for a £ 33M deal in July 2002, making him the most expensive British player. He became the stalwart of the United team and has his name in the list of Old Trafford greats.



Ferdinand's agent Pini Zahvi says the 29-year old defender has more than five years in him and it won't be the last contract at Manchester United.

"I believe he can play longer than [Paolo] Maldini - and they believe so at Manchester United as well." he said.

"This new deal will take him beyond 34, but it won't be his last contract, and in all probability it won't be his last contract at Manchester United." he added.

Rio might be gettin a pay rise on his £100,000-a-week salary, but Sir Alex Ferguson was concerned that Ferdinand, who had just one year to run on his existing contract, might be tempted by a move abroad. The new deal is more than a relief to the United boss, who was happy to hear Zahvi's comments, "Rio is very happy there, he wanted to stay and they wanted him to stay. Of course he could have gone to another big club, but he did not want to."

Rio Ferdinand, who might be the first choice skipper for club and country soon, has 66 caps to his credit for England and has captained the national side for last month's friendly international. He has also worn the captain's armband for Manchester United in the absence of Gary Neville.