Footballer Rio Ferdinand and Duran Duran are set to team up on a new version of the band’s hit song, ‘Rio’, it’s been reported.

The 80s group are understood to have approached Ferdinand about recording vocals for the song before he jets off to South Africa for this summer’s World Cup.

Duran Duran have previously joked about re-releasing the song if England triumphed ever at a major tournament.

But, according to the Daily Mirror, they have been inspired the release a version before this year's tournament in the absence of an official anthem.

"No one's released a serious World Cup song this year and Duran Duran, with millions of fans, would be guaranteed a hit if they stepped up to the plate,” a source said.

"Mark Ronson has been in touch, and would be up for remastering, as has Nick Hodgson, from the Kaiser Chiefs.

“Rio fancies himself as a singer. It'd be fantastic if they can find the time to get into the studio."

The Fall's Mark E Smith, goalkeeper Peter Shilton and Chico are all releasing songs for the tournament, which starts next month.

(by Jason Gregory)