Galatasaray and LA Galaxy battle for Manchester United star

The curtain may be coming down on Rio Ferdinand’s Manchester United career but the 35-year-old has no plans to hang up his boots just yet with a series of lucrative offers from abroad on the table.

This latest development comes in the wake of the defender’s decision to rule out retirement following the Red Devils’ 4-0 win over Norwich City at the weekend, which marked a return to form for both the team and the player.

Quizzed on his future after the game, Ferdinand confirmed he had no intentions of quitting the game just yet.

“I’m going to continue playing,” he told reporters.

“Whether it’s here, I don’t know. But I hope so.”

But with no new deal forthcoming as yet from Old Trafford, the player looks set to turn his attention to offers from abroad, with two teams shaping up as early frontrunners to land his services.

Turkish giants Galatasaray are believed to be one club keen on recruiting the former England centre-back.

Gala have adopted a policy of recruiting ageing stars in recent years with Didier Drogba continuing to lead the line for the club, despite being in his twilight years.

And after missing out on the league title to Fenerbahce following a poor start to the season, Ferdinand could be the man to provide some defensive steel to the team.

A move to Galatasaray would also ensure the 35-year-old continues to compete in the Champions League, as well as a chance to link up with his brother Anton who is currently on the books of Antalyaspor.

However the Turkish side could face competition from LA Galaxy, with the MLS side eager to make Ferdinand a marquee signing to fill David Beckham’s role with the club.

The Manchester United man may also be tempted by a move to the United States and a chance to raise his profile across the pond.

But with either offer likely to only be taken up in the event of no new deal emerging at Old Trafford, the decision could ultimately rest with the Red Devils.

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