...... as alternative to Alexis Sanchez

Andre Ayew has emerged as an alternative transfer target to Alexis Sanchez for Manchester United.

Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson is known to be keen to land Udinese's £26 million-rated winger Sanchez, but faces strong competition from Manchester City and Chelsea for the Chile international's signature.

Reports in France suggest Ferguson is also monitoring Marseille winger Ayew, in case United miss out on Sanchez.

Ayew impressed as part of the Ghana team that reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup and has since enjoyed a fine season for Ligue 1 title-chasers Marseille

Ferguson's scouts have apparently been keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old son of African football legend Abedi Pele, but they have not been alone and representatives of Barcelona have also been spotted at Stade Velodrom

Ayew, who spent last season on loan at Arles Avignon in the French second division, told Skysports.com it would be a dream to join either of the Champions League finalists.

'I am delighted to be linked with two powerhouses of world football. It means I have improved,' he said.

'I have not got a favourite, I am just speechless!'

Ayew played in both legs of Marseille's Champions League clash with Manchester United earlier in the season but, like most of his team-mates, struggled to make an impression.