Ferguson calls on Ferdinand to sign contract

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has told defender Rio Ferdinand to end speculation about his future by signing a new contract.

The 26-year-old England international has delayed signing the club's new offer, but Ferguson wants the matter concluded as a matter of urgency.

A further meeting is planned between the player's agent and United chief executive David Gill in the near future.

"He has had a fantastic offer from the club. We want Rio to sign now because that will put the matter to rest," Ferguson told a news conference yesterday.

"All it does (otherwise) is create speculation and an unnecessary agenda for the club, which we don't want."

Ferguson, whose side face a Champions League qualifying round tie next month, wants to focus on a positive start to the season with a squad settled.

"That could be solidified by Rio signing his contract and I hope he does," Ferguson added.

Ferdinand still has two years to run on his existing contract.