Agent fears for Rio move

The agent at the centre of Rio Ferdinand's record breaking move from Leeds to Manchester United believes the deal could collapse.

Israeli agent Pini Zahavi, who has guided Ferdinand since he was a 15-year-old, told Standard Sport today: "The deal is not yet done and I am not sure it will be done.

"In my opinion the money will now speak. If Manchester pay what they want for him he will go."

United sources have already indicated this week that they won't over pay for the player whose value soared after his performances at the World Cup for England, leaving the move at risk.

If that's the case, Ferdinand, who asked for a transfer on Wednesday, will have to swallow his pride and stay at Elland Road.

Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale said he had an "amicable and constructive" meeting with Ferdinand yesterday in which the player told him he would be fully committed to Leeds if he was not sold.

Ridsdale said Leeds had already turned down one bid from United, reported to be for £20m, but he has conceded he could accept a much higher fee of around £30m. Ferdinand said today: "I asked to leave for the good of my career. I have told Mr Ridsdale why I feel I must leave and I think he understands. He told me if an acceptable offer came in for me, he would consider it.

"There is no animosity on either side. I just feel I need Champions League football to help my career.

"I played in it once with Leeds and it was brilliant and I feel I need more of it now to make me a better player. A footballer has a short career and you have to make the most of your opportunities."

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was reported to have told Leeds they have only themselves to blame if Ferdinand goes. He said: "We had a similar situation with Patrick Vieira and made statements saying we wanted him to stay. Leeds look like they have hesitated and if you show hesitation, you lose the player."