Chicago Fire: 'No Rio Ferdinand talks'

Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire have denied this morning's reports that suggested they were preparing to make an offer for Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.

The 32-year-old centre-back has entered the final year of his contract at Old Trafford, leading some to question his long-term future with the Premier League champions.

However, the Fire have revealed that Ferdinand is not currently a player they are pursuing.

"We have watched and admired the play of Rio Ferdinand for a number of years," read a club statement. "However, there is no substance to these current reports that the Fire is negotiating with Manchester United and the player to bring him to Chicago."

A representative for the player also rebuffed the transfer talk earlier today.