Ferdinand says he is not sure if Manchester United need the West Ham United midfielder at the moment.
The England international has established himself as one of the best players in his position in the Premier League due to his exploits with the London-based club.
Rice has been tipped with a move away from the London Stadium this summer and the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United are all mulling over the possibility of signing the 22-year-old, who is said to be valued at £100 million
Ferdinand has warned his old club against the signing of Rice, insisting that the Red Devils must look to improve other options instead.
“With a position [No 6] like Declan’s, it’s more: Do Man Utd feel he’s an absolute need right now? Are there other areas in the team where they have a bigger desire to recruit for?” said Ferdinand on his FIVE YouTube channel.
“I think center-back, 100 per cent, and I think right wing, 100%.”
Ferdinand added: “West Ham fans are going mad on social media by the way, they’re hammering me like, ‘Why you saying Man Utd should buy him?!’
“I was asked a question, and I answered the question honestly. If Man Utd act on my information and my say-so, then so be it.
“I think whoever buys Declan Rice buys someone who’s going to be there and committed for 10 years, giving you top-quality service, and someone who will be a driver of the right culture at your football club.
“That’s what you’re buying. And obviously a player who’s still got levels to grow in his game, and who’s hungry.”
