SOCCER: Manchester United look set to open informal contract talks with Rio Ferdinand amid renewed speculation of a big-money summer bid from Chelsea.

Ferdinand still has two-and-a-half years left on his current £70,000-a-week deal but United officials are keen to clear the path for an extension and are likely to contact the England defender's advisers within the next few weeks to establish the basis for more formal discussions.

Any talks will be held with the backdrop of Chelsea's reported interest and in the knowledge that the Stamford Bridge club are capable of out-muscling any financial offer United are prepared to make.

Ferdinand cost United a British record £29.1 million from Leeds in 2002 and Chelsea are reported to be considering a £6 million-a-year deal to lure the player.