Report: Rio Ferdinand rejects move to Aston Villa

Outgoing Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has reportedly rejected the chance to join Aston Villa on a free transfer this summer.

The 35-year-old has expressed a desire to continue his playing career following a 12-year association with United, who decided against offering the centre-back a new deal.

The former England international has been linked to numerous clubs, including newly-promoted Premier League side Queens Park Rangers and a switch to the MLS in the United States.

According to Sky Sports News, Villa have approached Ferdinand about joining the Midlands outfit this summer, but the defender has turned them down.

Tottenham Hotspur, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as manager, have also been linked with a move for Ferdinand.