We'll be stronger with Rio, says Giggs

Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs believes Rio Ferdinand is one of only a few players in the world who can improve the Old Trafford side.

England and Leeds centre-back Ferdinand is a £30m (€46.7m) target for Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, and is expected to make the move before the start of the season.

Giggs told The Sun: ‘‘Rio is an excellent defender. There are probably only a handful of players in the world who can strengthen Manchester United - and he is one of them.

‘‘He will come in and improve this side. He will fit in at United perfectly.

‘‘No disrespect to West Ham but he has improved so much since his move to Leeds.

‘‘He has been playing in the Champions League and in high-profile matches. They really improve your game, as will the experience he gained from the World Cup.

‘‘He always had great ability at West Ham but now he is proven on the world stage.

‘‘What has always struck me when I have played against him is how quick and strong he is. Since he has been made Leeds captain, he has become a leader as well.

‘‘He definitely has all the qualities you look for in a defender.’’

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes Leeds did not act quickly enough to ensure Ferdinand stays at Elland Road.

Wenger now expects Ferdinand to join Manchester United and told the Daily Express: ‘‘Rio will go to Manchester United and that will make Manchester United stronger and Leeds weaker. He will be a strong asset for United.

‘‘We had a similar situation with Patrick Vieira and made statements saying we wanted him to stay.

‘‘Leeds look like they have hesitated, and if you show hesitation, you lose the player.’’