In the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo's flirtations with Real Madrid, Carlos Tevez has said that while playing in Spain remains a long-term ambition, he wants to sign a permanent deal with Manchester United.

Ronaldo last night cast a shadow over Manchester United's Champions League final preparations by claiming he has yet to make a decision on his future, however, Tevez has given the club a boost by insisting he wants to stay at Old Trafford. The Argentina international has enjoyed a superb debut following an acrimonious summer move from West Ham United. And having signed on a two-year loan, United officials are investigating the best way to resolve Tevez's ownership situation with Kia Joorabchian.

"I would certainly love to extend my contract," the 24-year-old said. "I would go and sign right now if the opportunity was there. La Liga is a possibility but that day is a long way off. I know a lot of South Americans prefer to play in Italy or Spain when they move to Europe but I am really pleased that I came here. This is the best league in the world and I am among some of the best footballers in the world.

"I am not one to be making comparisons between clubs but Manchester United are right up there with anyone in the world. When there were problems last summer, everyone assured me it would reach a positive conclusion and I am glad it did. From day one, everyone has treated me well and made me feel right at home. The fans at Manchester United even shout 'Argentina'. That is why I am so happy here."

In collecting his first major European medal by helping United overcome Wigan Athletic to lift the Premier League last weekend, Tevez knows he can cap a truly memorable campaign by winning the Champions League in Moscow on Wednesday.

"It is great to live through and experience the build-up to such a big game," he said. "I know, even in South America, after the World Cup and the domestic tournaments, it is the most followed competition. For a player, being involved in it, it is the second biggest thing you can be involved in after the World Cup. It is vital we have the experienced guys in the team who know what situations like this are like," he said. "People like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes can settle everyone down and help us prepare mentally for the game on Wednesday. We can approach it with a bit more confidence knowing they are there to keep us focussed on the game."