Chile and Ecuador hot prospect have their heart set on a move to Manchester United

Chile superstar Alexis Sanchez has his heart set on a move to Manchester United.

The Udinese winger has been forwarded as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo ever since the Portuguese icon was sold to Real Madrid.

And his performances at the World Cup have only enhanced his growing reputation, despite being surprisingly substituted against Spain.

Sanchez's sparkling form has reaffirmed Sir Alex Ferguson's interest in his services and sources close to the player claim he's dreamed of joining the Red Devils since his boyhood years.

"All Alexis wants is to play for Manchester United," revealed a Chile team-mate, who did not want to be named.

"He'd give anything for that."

Udinese insist they don't want to sell the 21-year-old, who is nicknamed 'El Nino Maravilla' (the Wonder Boy), but it's understood the wide man would jump at the chance to head for Old Trafford.

Antonio Valencia has replaced Ronaldo on the right flank for the dethroned champions but Sanchez's apparent desire to come to Manchester is certain to give Ferguson some food for thought.

Meanwhile, Villareal winger Jefferson Montero has admitted he would love to play for Manchester United.

The Ecuadorian talent, 20, is very highly regarded having shone all season for the Spanish club's 'B' team.

The Yellow Submarines have promoted Montero to their first-team squad during the close season and he has already impressed at international level with two goals in nine caps.

Montero is determined to play in the same side at club level with United's Antonio Valencia, who enjoyed his first campaign at Old Trafford after arriving from Wigan.

"I hope to play in the same team with him," revealed Montero. "Me on one side and him on the other.

"It would be amazing.

"It is what most people ask me - they want Antonio on the right and me on the left for United.

"Antonio deserves everything he gets as he's done very well.

"He started from not very much - like me.

"I would love to follow in his footsteps and play for Manchester United, if that opportunity arises.

"Who knows what will happen in the future?

"For the moment, I am at Villarreal and have great respect for the team."