Harry Redknapp is considering making Rio Ferdinand the highest paid player in the history of Queens Park Rangers by offering him as much as £80,000-per-week.
The former England international is a free agent this summer, having ended his long association with Manchester United upon the expiry of his contract. During an illustrious 12 years at Old Trafford, the defender helped the Reds win six Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League, a FIFA Club World Cup and two League Cups.
Although many expected Ferdinand to call time on his career when leaving United, due largely to his recent injury record and the fact he will be 36 in November, he has made it clear he intends to prolong his playing career. Indeed, he used his Mail on Sunday column to reiterate his desire to find a new club ahead of the new season.
“I can assure you of one thing: I’m not quite ready to join the [Gary] Lineker-[Alan] Shearer retirement club just yet,” Ferdinand, who is working for the BBC at the World Cup Finals, said. “I have options on the table from several clubs in England and overseas for next season and I’m intending to play on if the right situation arises. I’m keeping myself fit and in shape, doing my running and my workouts, so I’ll be ready for whatever new club I join.”
It had previously been speculated that Ferdinand could head to the United States for a year or two of playing in the MLS, but The Guardian claims Redknapp wants him at Loftus Road. Having defeated Derby County in the playoff final last month QPR are back in the Premier League, and they are said to be considering paying the former United defender a wage of up to £80,000-per-week, which would be a record salary for the Londoners.
Redknapp, of course, is a long-term admirer of Ferdinand, who he worked with as a youngster and gave a debut to during their time at West Ham United together. Last week he confirmed his interest in signing his former charge, and although he was hardly confident of doing so, maybe he was reluctant to talk up his chances amidst rival interest. Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and the Hammers have also been linked with the player, who has also reportedly received offers from the US, China and Dubai.
