Rio Ferdinand ready for Man Utd top job – if the money is right

RIO FERDINAND is willing to make a sensational return to Manchester United — if the money is right.

The two parties are a long way apart after initial talks about a possible sporting director role at Old Trafford.

Ferdinand, 40, is now settled back in the south with his family — after spending 12 years as a player with the Red Devils.

But he is tempted by the prospect of moving back to the North West and helping restore the club to its former glory.

He is now waiting for United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward to come up with an offer which would tempt him to pack in his lucrative TV punditry and other roles.

United are restructuring the club and Ferdinand is viewed as someone who could oversee their transfer strategy.

RIO GRANDE

His close relationship with boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who he played alongside for five years, is another factor in his favour.

Woodward has stayed in contact with the former centre-back and believes he has many qualities suitable for the role.

The United chief has also looked into bringing Stoke midfielder Darren Fletcher back to the club in some capacity once he hangs up his boots.

And Mike Phelan is under consideration for a wider role at Carrington — although Solskjaer is reluctant to lose his No 2.

The possible appointment of Ferdinand is the most intriguing one. He is believed to be one of several candidates identified by United as someone to improve their dismal recent record with transfers.

ROCK IN RIO

The former Old Trafford favourite was in his role for BT Sport last night but would not be drawn on the speculation.

He was spotted chatting to Ajax chief executive and ex-United keeper Edwin van der Sar before the game at Tottenham.

Moments later, Ferdinand was asked by host Gary Lineker if Ajax’s highly-rated defender Matthijs de Ligt was the sort of player the sporting director of a big club would try to sign.

Ferdinand replied: “I’m sure they would — and I see where you are going here, Gary.”

United’s head of corporate development Matt Judge is likely to stay in his role, which sees him negotiating and closing player deals.

The technical director would help to identify players and be a middle man to liaise with Solskjaer and Woodward.

Ferdinand’s knowledge and strong connections with the club, along with his personality, are believed to have led Woodward to his door.

It is understood United want to make an appointment in time for the new man to help with what is likely to be a busy summer of transfer activity at the club.