Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he wants to carry on as manager of the English champions for another two to three years.

In an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live the 70-year-old said he would like an ambassadorial role with the club after he retires.

And Ferguson also says he missed the chance to sign Joe Hart, the Manchester City goalkeeper, for just 100,000 pounds ($A148,000) when he was younger.

“I think you always want to go out on a winning note,” Ferguson said.

“Hopefully we can do that. I don’t know how long I can last now but if my health stays up I don’t think another two or three years would harm me.”

Ferguson said his most recent regret was not snapping up England goalkeeper Hart, who signed for Manchester City in 2006, when he had the chance.

“I could have bought Joe Hart for 100,000 pounds so we all make mistakes,” he said.

“If you look at the England goalkeeper situation for the last 20 years, I would think he’s easily the best. I’ve no doubt he will (keep the role) for the next 10 years.”