Hammers boss Alan Curbishley has reportedly put his former
England under-21 centre half up for sale as part of his summer
clear-out, as he aims to overhaul his squad in order to challenge
for a top six position next season.
The Irons have set an asking price of just under £5 million for the
brother of Manchester United star Rio, with Curbishley including
Ferdinand in his clear-out due to his high wages, and the need to
generate funds if other players are to be brought in.
Despite being a regular in the West Ham side last season, Ferdinand
has struggled to win over his club boss who had earlier cast doubts
about his future in the team.
The surprise move should interest a variety of Premier League
clubs, but reportedly Tottenham Hotspur, who have had a bid turned
down for the 23-year-old in the past, are set to be encouraged to
make another move for him with the likes of Younes Kaboul and
Ricardo Rocha set for the exit door in future weeks.
Tottenham’s Spanish boss Juande Ramos is still keen to strengthen
the defensive area of his team despite signing the likes of
Jonathan Woodgate and Alan Hutton in January, and has already been
linked with the likes of Richard Dunne of Manchester City and Cata
Diaz of Getafe in recent days.
Ferdinand has made 163 career appearances for West Ham since making
his debut for the club in 2002.