League Championship side Preston North End have signed Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck on loan for the rest of the season.

GettyImagesDanny Welbeck: Will gain experience on loan

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has allowed his son, Darren, to make Welbeck his first signing as Preston's new manager.

The 19-year-old striker, who signed a four-year contract extension with United in December, goes straight into the North End squad in time for Tuesday's trip to Peterborough.

Manchester-born Welbeck, who came through the ranks at United, has scored five goals in 24 games for the Premier League side.

Preston, who famously had David Beckham on loan before he made an impact at Old Trafford, are currently 17th in the Championship, six points off the relegation zone.