Free Agent Ferdinand Joins QPR

Rio Ferdinand has joined Queens Park Rangers on a free transfer.

The 35-year-old became a free-agent at the end of last season, following his release by Manchester United.

And having held talks with his former manager at West Ham, Harry Redknapp, and passed his medical at Loftus Road, Ferdinand signed a one-year contract with Rangers on Thursday.

Rio Ferdinand Becomes QPR's First Signing of the Summer.
Rio Ferdinand Becomes QPR’s First Signing of the Summer.

Ferdinand said: “I spoke to Harry and Mr Fernandes at length. I think they both looked me in the eye and knew that I still have something to offer – that I had a genuine desire to come here and play football.”

The former England defender was given his senior debut by Redknapp at the age of 16 and spent four years at Upton Park before moving to Leeds United in November 2000 for a record transfer fee of £18m.

He joined United in a then-transfer record deal of £30m in July 2002 and went on to make 455 appearances for the club in 12 years.

He won the Champions League, six Premier League titles and two League Cups.

“It’s not about money – I had loads of more lucrative offers available to me. But the draw for me was to play in the Premier League and back here where it all started,” he added.

“I still feel I’ve got something to offer and I’m excited about helping this club cement its place in the Premier League.”