Imminent decision on future of Ferdinand

LEEDS chairman Peter Ridsdale believes Rio Ferdinand's future could be resolved by today, and he stressed he will not let the intense club rivalry with Manchester United interfere with any transfer dealings.

Ridsdale had a meeting with the player he regards as the best defender in the world at Leeds’ training ground at Thorpe Arch near Wetherby yesterday, where Ferdinand reiterated his desire to move to Old Trafford.

Although no new offer was received from Manchester United yesterday, or any other club for that matter, after the meeting Ridsdale indicated the matter of Ferdinand’s position at Leeds could be sorted out by tonight.