Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand seriously considered a move to MLS last year, it has been revealed.

The Daily Mail says such were the issues regarding Ferdinand's long-standing back problem prior to the start of last season that he had private doubts over whether United would offer him a new contract beyond the one that expires next summer.

As such, tentative talks took place about a future move with representatives of American MLS clubs such as Chicago Fire.

"Some sun on my back would help," he told a friend.