Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is set for a bumper final pay-day in 2012.

The Sunday Mirror says Ferdinand is delaying new contract talks with United until the summer.

Ferdinand has made no secret of his desire to stay at Old Trafford for the rest of his career and he was integral to a fruitful spell in United's history.

Should he opt to go ­however, there will be no shortage of takers for his defensive skills.

Chicago Fire in the MLS have shown interest, while two of Qatar's richest sides, Lekhwiya and Al Sadd, are both keen on him, which would ensure a lucrative end to his career.