The 24-year-old Morocco international has won admirers for a his impressive performances in Italy this season.
Former Marseille academy product Benatia has another three years left on his contract with the Serie A side, who he joined two years ago from French Second Division club Clermont.
Make a move: Udinese defender Mehdi Benatia says potential move to Manchester United would be a 'dream come true'
Chelsea were understood to be monitoring him before they snapped up ?7million Gary Cahill from Bolton last month.
? But Benatia has his heart set on a move to Old Trafford where manager Ferguson could be tempted to usher in the defender as a long-term replacement for Rio Ferdinand.
'To be linked with Manchester United is a dream come true,' Benatia said.
'They are the biggest club in the world, and to have an opportunity to play at Old Trafford would be amazing, believe me.
In the thick of it: Benatia wrestles Arsenal's Marouane Chamakh in Champions league action earlier this season
'But I have a contract with Udinese, and they have to be happy before I can move.'
Benatia would have serious competition for a place, however, with Ferguson set to welcome back Nemanja Vidic from injury next season and has Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones as other defensive options along with Ferdinand.
?Scholes set for new one-year deal as United veteran hints at Old Trafford extension Chelsea on the Paul as Blues ramp up interest in United youngster Pogba All the latest Manchester United news, features and opinion
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail