Essien targets Champions League

Michael Essien says Real Madrid will go all out to win the Champions League this season ahead of their round-of-16 tie against Manchester United.

The Santiago Bernabeu side have been struggling in La Liga throughout the 2012/13 campaign, but they are desperate for success in other competitions and are aiming to go all the way in Europe to claim their 10th continental title.

"The Champions League is hugely significant. As a footballer you dream of winning it. We'll give everything and see if we can win it," Essien told EFE.

Jose Callejon, meanwhile, said United will prove to be a tough opponent, but is positive about his side's chances.

"Manchester United are showing how strong they are in the Premier League, but we want to beat them and we'll do everything possible to go through," Callejon said.

The first leg of the round-of-16 tie is scheduled to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu on February 13.