By John Sinnott BBC Sport Online

Rio Ferdinand's agent has told BBC Sport Online that the Leeds defender would be "very happy" to join Manchester United.

But Pinhas Zahavi also insisted Ferdinand will not put up a fight if Leeds stand by their decision to reject his transfer request.

The 23-year-old's bid to quit Elland Road was instantly rejected by club chairman Peter Ridsdale.

"If they say no, then he will stay. He is a loyal soldier. But he would be very happy to join Manchester United," said Zahavi.

"He wants to play in a bigger and better club. He wants to play in the Champions League.

"Going to the World Cup has given him the appetite to participate in a very high level of football. He wants to be competing for titles and medals.

"But I must reiterate that he is very happy at Leeds. He is not unhappy and he feels at home. If Leeds say he cannot go then he will honour the contract."

Ferdinand himself has admitted he agonised about his decision to put in a transfer request.

"I have been torn apart over the last three days," he said.

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

But Zahavi made it clear that Ferdinand would prefer to leave Elland Road now rather than activate a clause in his contract in a year's time.

"Don't forget his contract has a get-out clause, which allows him to go at the end of next season," Zahavi added.

"All he is asking is to be allowed to go a year earlier."