London, Dec 27 (ANI): Italian striker Federico Macheda, who played a key role in the final games of last season in earning Manchester United their third successive Premier League title, is being lined up for a January loan move to Spanish club Real Zaragoza.

Macheda has not appeared in the League this term and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is considering a loan request from Zaragoza’s caretaker boss Victor Munoz.

Macheda, 18, is likely to make the move to Spain until the end of the season, News of the World reports.

Newcastle are also interested in taking Macheda on loan, but it is thought Ferguson will see La Liga as a better learning environment than the Championship for the young striker.

The two clubs have enjoyed an excellent relationship since United loaned Gerard Pique, who is now with Barcelona, to the Spanish club three years ago.

Zaragoza’s sporting director Pedro Herrera said: “With our money problems it is necessary to search for loan deals and these have worked well in other years. Macheda is on our agenda, that is certain.” (ANI)