Rio has world at his feet

As a statement of intent, it could barely be more definitive. Beneath the satisfaction, however, Ferguson knows this is a transfer that brings its own pressures. With the exception of Juan Sebastian Veron last summer, Ferguson has rarely been allowed to bid for Europe's blue chip players in his 15 years at Old Trafford.

The likes of Rivaldo, Gabriel Batistuta and Patrick Kluivert have all been coveted in recent times but the financial flexibility was never there. This time, Ferguson's board has come through for him and, as such, the pressure on the Scot to deliver is intense.

For all his suggestions to the contrary, Veron's arrival has not yet worked. It may do so in the months to come, but Ferguson will rely on Ferdinand settling considerably quicker.

Last season's defensive problems must not be allowed to return if Ferguson is to render Arsenal's claims to be the country's dominant force both premature and ridiculous.

Ferguson said: 'I'm sure I'll enjoy my three extra years here a little more now that Rio is here. When you look at how far you go in terms of spending money, you look at things like age, nationality and potential.

'With Rio, all those factors are perfect. He will be able to play with Laurent Blanc for a year and that will help him greatly.

'He will learn so much on the field and in the dressing room. But I also believe his own drive and determination will help him. That's all good.'

The first piece of advice Ferguson offered his acquisition was on the art of running over photographers camped on your driveway.

That, of course, was tongue-incheek, but the fact is that the responsibility for the early success of this transfer will rest largely with Ferdinand himself.

In particular, much will depend on his ability to cope with the unique mental demands of playing for United and the emotional repercussions of a transfer as rancorous as any in recent history.

Right now, the signs for both manager and player are good.

Most footballers arrive at occasions like this accompanied only by an agent, an attitude and an over- stuffed wallet. Ferdinand, however, brought his mother, young sister and girlfriend along too, an indication perhaps that his is a private background that will stand him in good stead.

Clues can also be found in his professional history. His mature contribution to what was a moderate World Cup for England remains fresh in the memory and serves as a marker as to just how far Ferdinand has come since leaving the security of his native London 18 months ago.

Leeds fans - and indeed those of West Ham - will also recall that Ferdinand marked a difficult return to Upton Park two seasons ago by scoring a goal.

A repeat of such a feat when United travel to Leeds on September 14 is perhaps a little too much to ask. West Yorkshire Police will certainly hope it does not happen.

But Ferdinand, though aware of the bitterness he leaves behind at Elland Road, is confident he can cope.

He said: 'The transfer fee will not bother me. I won't think again about the price tag. Today is the only day I'll think about it, never mind talk about it.

'I'd like to thank the supporters I leave behind at Elland Road. I'm not sure they will support my decision. I'd like to think so, but there's not much I can do about it. You'll have to ask them.

'There are certain things in my career at United that I'll have to get used to. I'll need to improve as a player and work hard here.

'But I've been in this situation before. This is one of the biggest clubs in the world and it will be difficult.

'I've always had confidence in my ability. All I've ever wanted since I was a kid was to get better and better. I still want that. This is the place to do it.'