Leeds turn down Ferdinand transfer request

Rio Ferdinand saw his official transfer request rejected by Leeds United on Wednesday as the wrangle over the England defender's future intensified.

"I can confirm that Rio Ferdinand has asked for a transfer," Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale said in a statement.

"This request has been rejected."

Ferdinand, the 30 million pounds-rated player wanted by Leeds's English premier league rivals Manchester United, said the decision to ask for a transfer had been agonising.

"I have been torn apart over the last three days," the 23-year-old was quoted as saying by Sky Sports television.

"I love Leeds United and the people...they took a huge gamble in signing me and I will never forget that."

Ferdinand, who joined Leeds from West Ham United for 18 million pounds ($28.20 million) in November 2000, had talks with new Leeds manager Terry Venables on Sunday.

His decision to submit a transfer request is thought to be designed to pave a way for a move to Old Trafford.

United manager Alex Ferguson has made public his desire to secure Ferdinand's services, but the Manchester club's next move is awaited with interest.

The onus is now on United to table a formal bid that Leeds, who are heavily in debt, would find impossible to resist.

Ridsdale has been angered by the continuing speculation over Ferdinand's future, and has maintained in recent days that Leeds's prize asset is going nowhere.

He added on Wednesday: "No bid worthy of consideration has been received from any football club for Rio.

"Rio has four years remaining on his current contract and I expect him to respect that contractual obligation."