Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted he has no intention of selling Nani in January.

The Portuguese winger has admitted his frustration at being unable to hold down a regular first-team spot this term.

Following the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo in the summer, Nani was seen as the heir apparent - but that has not transpired.

The likes of AC Milan and Benfica are both said to be keen on the 23-year-old but Ferguson is adamant he will not be selling.

"Some big clubs have been mentioned for Nani, like Milan and Benfica, but there has been no contact made with us - and we wouldn't entertain selling him anyway," Ferguson is quoted by the Sunday Mirror.

"He is only 23. If someone came in for Nani in January we would tell him that he is going absolutely nowhere.

"He's a young boy and he wants to play - and he might get a chance against Spurs in the Carling Cup this week.

"He has suffered because (Luis Antonio) Valencia's form has been excellent and because (Gabriel) Obertan has emerged as an interesting player.

"It is no criticism of Nani, but the way things have developed in the last few weeks have gone against him.

"I have spoken to him and told him that he must take his chance when it comes along."