Falcao plays down Manchester United links

London: Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao has distanced himself from speculation he is on the verge on joining Manchester United.

Reports from Spain indicate the Premier League leaders are leading the race to sign the striker - holding off interest from Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid by putting a deposit down for the Colombia international, much like the deal to bring David de Gea to Old Trafford. However, as exclusively revealed by Goal.com, the La Liga outfit`s forward is unlikely to come cheap after his representatives made it known they want him to become England`s highest-paid player should he move. And now the 27-year-old himself has moved to play down any switch to the Red Devils, suggesting he is unaware of talks between the two clubs. "In recent weeks I have tried to isolate myself and not think about the rumours about my future," he told native radio station RCN. "I do not really know where that information has come from [joining Manchester United], that is part of the press. I`m only focused on Atletico Madrid. I do not let the market rumours affect my performance." Turning his attention to next year`s World Cup in Brazil, Falcao admitted his "biggest dream" is to be a "star" on the world stage, adding his confidence that Colombia are well on their way to securing qualification. "That`s the bottom line and what everyone wishes in the national team," he continued. "The biggest dream I have is to play a World Cup and be a star. I think we`re on track, although it takes a lot in this group. "We have important games ahead against Peru and Argentina and it is necessary to get good results because that would allow us to get closer to our goal, which is qualification." Goal.com