Sir Alex Ferguson has told David Gill to land him the ‘top- class’ player that can make United European champions again.

The pair are determined to secure the superstar name they have been hunting all summer before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

Wesley Sneijder and Samir Nasri are at the top of that list – and with both players still available, Ferguson is refusing to give up hope on either one.

The United manager still has money to spend despite already splashing out £50m on Ashley Young, Phil Jones and David de Gea.

He is determined to add a marquee name to his squad as he bids to close the gap on Champions League winners Barcelona.

And Gill admits only the best will do when it comes to finding a replacement for the retired Paul Scholes.

The chief executive said: “I don’t want to talk about specifics, but it’s clear to say that in order to get into the United team you have to be a top-class player.”

Sneijder has left the door open to a £35m move to Old Trafford – even if his salary demands of more than £200,000-a-week are understood to be a stumbling block in any potential deal.

But he flew out to Beijing with Inter Milan yesterday as he continues to prepare for the new season with the Serie A giants.

Nasri was the man who commanded Ferguson’s attention at the start of the summer, with the French international yet to sign a new deal with Arsenal.

His contract expires next year – but Arsene Wenger has so far refused to cash in on player he could lose for nothing in 12 months’ time.

Ferguson has suggested that he believes Nasri will go elsewhere – with City appearing to be at the head of the queue for his services – but his future remains in question.

A cut price midfield option could yet be Joey Barton.

United have been alerted to his situation at Newcastle after the former City player was made available for a free transfer yesterday.

Meanwhile, Antonio Valencia has been handed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2015.

The Ecuador winger made a remarkable come back from a horror ankle break last season to play in the Champions League final.

“Antonio has made a fantastic contribution since his arrival,” said Ferguson. “His speed, crossing ability and versatility have been a big asset for us.

“He has a quiet, unassuming way of going about his business, which is underlined by great strength of character – as his recovery from such a bad injury last season proves."

Valencia added: “I am delighted to stay at United. Since my first day at Carrington, I have been happy here. I hope that I can continue to develop as a player.

“I am looking forward to making my contribution to helping this squad compete for more trophies.”