Rio Ferdinand has been linked with a return to Old Trafford as he is one of the several candidates touted for the new sporting director job at Manchester United.

And according to reports from last night, Ferdinand has met with United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward who wants to finalize an appointment before the start of the coming season.

During his time as a Manchester United player, Rio Ferdinand made 455 appearances for the club, winning six league titles, the Champions League and two League cups. He was also team-mates with current manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer between 2002 and 2007.

The 40-year-old has been working as a football pundit since his retirement four years ago.