Macheda set for loan move

Manchester United’s Italian striker Federico Macheda appears set to return to his homeland on loan when the January transfer window opens.

The 19-year-old has struggled to establish himself at Old Trafford and has scored just once in 12 appearances this season.

Macheda’s representative Marcello Bonetto told Fiorentina.it United were keen to loan him out to gain more experience at the top level.

“Federico could leave United, that is true, but only on loan,” Bonetto said.

“The club and (United manager Sir Alex) Ferguson have absolute faith in (Javier Hernandez) Chicco. With the return of Michael Owen, confirmation of Wayne Rooney, plus fine form for Dimitar Berbatov and Hernandez, the space for him in Manchester has been reduced.”

“We talked it over and were given the all-clear by Ferguson to go on loan for six months in January to gain experience.”

“If we do decide to leave Manchester, then Italy represents the most likely destination.”

Parma, Fiorentina, Juventus and Lazio are all believed to be interested in the exciting prospect.