Fergie turns on United critics

Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale has also been privately upset that United have ridden roughshod over Leeds' attempts to keep the player. But United chief executive Peter Kenyon said: 'I am 100 per cent happy at what we have done. The first time I made an approach to Leeds was at the chairmen's summer conference.

'We followed that up five weeks ago with our first offer. I am 100 per cent confident that we have operated within the guidelines. There's no more to say on that.'

While Leeds lick their wounds on their tour of Australia and the Far East and the rest of the Premiership clubs wonder how they can compete with a club that continues to trade with confidence at a time when Europe's elite are tightening their belts, Ferdinand was looking forward to a new phase in his young career.

Ferguson believes the 23-year-old can develop into the best central defender in the world over the next couple of years, while the player said he was excited at the prospect of working with England team-mates such as David Beckham.

Ferdinand said: 'I want to win trophies and titles. That is why I am here. I was with the United players during the World Cup and their hunger and desire is stronger than ever. I want to be part of that.

'I am aware of this club's history and of what I can achieve here. When you walk in and see pictures of the likes of George Best, Bobby Charlton and Denis Law, you realise what this club means. I want to win the best trophies the game has to offer.'

Ferdinand's departure - which was inevitable once it became apparent United would wield the requisite financial muscle - leaves behind not only an unhappy manager and chairman but also legions of angry fans.

Having left West Ham for Yorkshire only 18 months ago, Ferdinand has been through this type of situation before and believes he will cope when United face Leeds at Elland Road on September 14.

He said: 'I would like to thank Leeds for what they have done for me. They will always be special. But this is a short career. You have to follow your heart. I have coped with this type of thing before. I will be OK.'

The deal will see Leeds receive £15m now, £14.3m in 12 months and up to £4m during Ferdinand's five-year contract period, depending on how United perform.

Leeds want to make Lazio's Jaap Stam the replacement for Ferdinand at the heart of their defence. But the Holland international indicated yesterday he was not anxious to return to England following his sudden departure from Old Trafford last summer.

Stam said on his icons.com website: 'It is very flattering that a club like Leeds have expressed their interest, but at the moment my desire is to stay in Italy.

' In fact, a transfer to another Italian club is more of a possibility than returning to play in England. I want at least another couple of seasons in Serie A before I consider my next move.'