The clearest indication yet that Rio Ferdinand will be staying at Manchester United next season has come from a confirmation that the defender has been given a testimonial by the Old Trafford outfit.
Ferdinand joined United for £29.1million from Leeds in 2002, meaning he completed a decade of service last summer.
With his contract due to expire this year, there had been plenty of speculation about whether Ferdinand would stay, or if he might be tempted to accept one of the lucrative offers he has received to play in the Far East or Major League Soccer.
So far, there has been no confirmation either way.
Ferdinand joined from Leeds United in 2002 for £29.1m
However, in acknowledging Ferdinand is presently putting plans in place for a testimonial game, which currently has no date, or opponent but will take place at the start of next season, it seems the Londoner is ready to commit himself to United for another year.
"I have spoken to Rio," said Ferguson.
"I would imagine the best thing for him would be to stay but at this moment in time he is more concerned about getting an opponent for his testimonial game.
"But we want him to stay and I am sure his representatives will be talking about that with David (Gill)."