Bayern Munich ace Franck Ribery is intent on sorting out his future before this summer's World Cup in South Africa.

The France international has been in the transfer spotlight for months, with footballing giants Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester City all linked with the 26-year-old.

The talented playmaker's contract with Bayern expires in 2011 and the club's hierarchy is now intent on selling their prized asset next summer if an extension to the Frenchman's current deal cannot be agreed.

Bayern remain hopeful that they could yet persuade Ribery to stay in Bavaria, but with the World Cup finals looming large on the horizon, the former Marseille favourite is adamant that he wants his future sorted out sooner rather than later.

"I believe I will know what is going to happen in March," Ribery told the highly respected France Football magazine.

"I want to know what my future will be. I want to go to the World Cup without this issue weighing on my mind.

"I know my representatives are open to anything and they are prepared to meet with me whenever I want. It is up to me to tell them what I want to do.

"The possibility of an extension at Bayern exists. I just want to play for a competitive team that will offer me the best possible opportunity to win titles.

"That could be Bayern or it could be someone else. I will be 27 in April and I am reaching an important stage of my career. I cannot afford to make a mistake."

Ribery also stressed that, despite reports to the contrary, a deal was not agreed with Real Madrid when Dutchman Arjen Robben joined Bayern from Real last August.

"Was there a deal agreed with Real when they sold Arjen Robben to Bayern? No. I have not signed with any other club," he said.

"I had lots of opportunities to do so last summer, with Real, Barcelona, Chelsea or Manchester.

"I hope to be give the same opportunity by Bayern, but we will know more in the spring."