Sampdoria have confirmed that Federico Macheda is to join them on loan until the end of the season.
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The Serie A club's president, Riccardo Garrone, hailed the deal in the light of the recent departure to AC Milan of Antonio Cassano. "I am very happy that Macheda has chosen Sampdoria and I think it's the same for the fans," said Garrone. "Macheda has easily filled the void left by Cassano, he will definitely do well. In these five months we will try to treat him well. With him here, the enthusiasm has increased tenfold."
On whether the duration of the loan spell will be six months, agent Giovanni Bia told Sky Sport 24: "The idea is this. Then it will be evaluated with Manchester United and they will need to see if he stays in Italy for another year. It is 99% he would go straight back to Manchester United."
Macheda told Gazzetta dello Sport: "There are still a couple of faxes (to be sent) but sometime between Wednesday and Thursday I will be in Italy. Genoa is a beautiful city and I am happy.
"I am only playing 10-20 minute spells in games currently and that is not helping my growth. Ferguson is of the same opinion. In this regard, we are all happy because, in six months' time, Manchester United will get a stronger player."
The Italy Under-21 international has found chances limited at Old Trafford this term, starting just two Premier League games with five further appearances from the substitutes' bench. His only goal in all competitions came in the dramatic comeback at Aston Villa as United drew 2-2.
Macheda has suffered with injuries since bursting onto the scene, making a scoring debut against Villa to help United take the 2008-09 Premier League title.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson wants Macheda to get first team football, and had indicated he would only loan him to a club that will offer him a place in the starting line-up.
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