Sir Alex Ferguson has said that he wants Paul Pogba to sign a new deal at Old Trafford after earmarking the youngster as a midfield option this season.

The 18-year-old, who made his first-team debut against Leeds in the Carling Cup this year, is yet to sign a new deal at the club, with both Milan clubs reportedly monitoring the situation.

The United manager has said the club are in discussions with Pogba's representatives about a new contract and remain optimistic that he will sign.

"We are negotiating with his agent and we want the boy to stay," said Ferguson.

"We have an option on his contract which takes us into a year and a half away so in that respect there is not a great emergency. But we would like him to sign a new contract and if he wants to be a Manchester United player he knows what to do.

"All young players who remain here always do well, particularly the ones with talent."

Pogba signed for Manchester United from Le Havre in 2009.