Manual transmission noice

In most cases a knocking noise is something in the engine.

What kind of noice are we talking about. If it is a wining noice it could be the power stearing pump but if it is a grinding noice it would be best to change the whole column it will save you alot of headache.

Hey Shona... Please take your car to a qualified professional... this could be something very serious related to safety.. do not take a chance.. let them diagnose your problem..please...

sounds like you need to replace the front wheel bearings, very common problem.

Probably you have some stuff there making that noice

You need to repair your transmission before it totally damaged. You're correct that the noise is coming out from you transmission frictions. Just get it repaired at dealer.
Regards

sounds like the gear rings ? worn need to replace or get a used trans? from a u-pullit yard?

a bearing in 1 of the pulleys is going bad

If the noise is a screeching noise, then most likely your window was replaced before and a small piece of the old glass was left in the window trim surrounding you door. Take a car antenna and pry back the rubber of felt (depending on the model) lip. You may have to remove the panel to check below the glass as well. Look for a very small object.

have you made sure it has oil in it