Monaco Starlet Admits Dream Move To Manchester United

Monaco youngster Nampalys Mendy has admitted a move to Manchester United is a dream but doesn't plan on leaving France in the near future.

The 20-year-old, who has been likened to former Real Madrid and Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele by his coach Claudio Ranieri, is out of contract this summer, reportedly caught the eye of United scouts after his impressive performances in Monaco's Ligue 2 winning campaign last season.

But while he appreciates the attention his performances have drawn, Mendy plans on pursuing his career in his homeland for now.

"It's encouraging," Mendy told L'Equipe when quizzed on the United rumours, ESPN report. "They're the club of my dreams. It proves that I've done some good things, but I want to stay in France."

Monaco have been Europe's biggest spenders so far during this summer transfer window. The principality club have already spent in the excess of £100m in securing the services of former Porto duo Joao Moutinho and James Rodriguez in addition to Colombian international Radamel Falcao.

While the ambition of the club creates an exciting prospect of a tussle between Monaco and Paris Saint Germain at the summit of French football next season, Mendy appears less enthused by the club's methods.

Having played an integral role in the club's promotion to the top tier of French football, there has been suggestions that Mendy is looking to leave the club in fear of losing his place to a big name arrival at the club this summer. But the midfielder insists his decision to leave is merely down to a difference in opinion during negotiations.

"It's not because of the competition," Mendy added. "I'm not afraid of that. Everywhere I go, there'll be that.

"And it is not Ranieri's fault either. If there had only been him, I would have extended my contract. It's simply that I didn't like several things that happened during the negotiation of my contract."