The Holy Prophet(pbuh) showed his special love for Imam Ali(as) حدیث الطائر ....حضور پاک کی امام علی سے خاص محبت

This hadith is also mentioned in Khasais al Nissair with the details. Please check this narration from Nissaie.

This narration shows the Prophet’s special love for Imam Ali, the Holy Prophet(pbuh) prayed O Allah send to me your most beloved person from your creation, the Holy Prophet did not allow Abu Bakar and Umar, the holy Prophet allowed only Imam Ali. This is true narration in the Sunni sources.

English Translation:

Sayyidina Anas ibn Maalik (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) had bird meat once. He said,

“0 Allah, send to me from Your creatures one who is dearest to You that he may eat with me this bird.”

 So, Ali came to him and ate with him.

Here is another narration

English Translation:

Sayyidina Ali (RA) narrated: Indeed, the Prophet (SAW) the unlettered Prophet asserted to me,

“None will love you except a believer and none will despise you but a hypocrite.”

Adi ibn Thabit said,

“I belong to the generation for whom the Prophet (SAW) prayed.”