Ferdinand has had problems fitness-wise, and was this week forced to pull out of England’s summer fixtures, but he believes he is capable of establishing himself at United for years to come.

Ferdinand, who joined United from Leeds last summer, told The People: “I can see myself playing here for the rest of my career.

“I’m playing along some of the greatest footballers in the world and playing for one of the best managers ever – you don’t let that go easily.

“Before I came to United, there was a possibility I could have moved abroad in terms of my football education. It wasn’t the right time, I don’t think you move to a big club abroad without having won anything in England.

“But now I want to stay at United. I can’t see myself anywhere else.”

Ferdinand was United’s big signing last summer when Alex Ferguson forked out a record €42m to take him from Elland Road.

Ferguson has yet to indicate what he intends to do in the transfer market this summer but AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso, who has been linked with United, admits he would be interested if the club came in for him.

Former Rangers player Gattuso has impressed during the Champions League campaign this season and was at Old Trafford on Wednesday as Milan beat Juventus in the final.

Gattuso told the Sunday Express: “My agent has informed me there are a number of English clubs interested in signing me and one of those is Manchester United.

“I have got another two years on my contract at Milan but Manchester United are a huge club. I would be crazy not to be interested. It’s an honour to be linked with them.

“The crunch would come if United made a bid for me. Then it would be a hard decision because I have a great relationship with the Milan supporters. I know, though, that I’d love to play in England at some stage of my career.”