Sergio Ramos and Bastian Schweinsteiger to Manchester United: 'Are they both using Manchester United?' asks Rio Ferdinand

Former defender questions the duo's real intentions

Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sergio Ramos (GETTY IMAGES)

Rio Ferdinand has questioned the true intentions of Manchester United transfer targets Sergio Ramos and Bastian Schweinsteiger.

The world class pair have been strongly linked with moves to Old Trafford this summer with The Independent understanding that Real Madrid defender Ramos is definitely a target, while in the case of Bayern Munich midfielder Schweinsteiger, there is widespread reports that he could make the move.

In both cases, there is speculation that the players are using that interest from Manchester United simply to enhance their bargaining position at their current clubs.

Ferdinand, who played for United for 12 years, has joined those expressing their concern.

He tweeted: "Are they both using Manchester United to get better deals at their current clubs?"

Ramos has two-years remaining on his current contract and is upset that it has been allowed to run down without the offer of new terms. A source close to the top of the Spanish club on Monday indicated to The Independent that the defender’s professed willingness to move to United seemed like a bluff designed to secure the player the £140,000-a-week contract he wants.

Germany international Schweinsteiger has a year to run on his deal at Bayern Munich.