United To 'Loan Out' Macheda

Federico Macheda's agent claims Manchester United are prepared to allow the striker to return to Italy on loan in January.

The teenager has scored just once in 12 appearances in all competitions this season and has often been linked with a move back to his homeland.

United have previously resisted interest from Serie A, but Macheda's representative Marcello Bonetto says the Premier League leaders are now keen for the 19-year-old to build up his first-team experience.

Fiorentina, Juventus, former club Lazio and Parma have all been linked with offers and Bonetto is waiting to see what transpires when the transfer window opens.

"Federico could leave United, that is true, but only on loan," Bonetto told Fiorentina.it.

"The club and Ferguson have absolute faith in 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 represent the most likely destination.

"Up until now we have not been contacted by anybody, but will only choose a club that can guarantee Federico consistent playing time. That's the only reason for leaving Manchester.

"Fiorentina have not contacted us, but can do whenever they want."