FRESH SUITORS EMERGE FOR MACHEDA

BOLOGNA have made an approach to Manchester United to take Federico Macheda on loan.

The promising striker recently signed a new long-term contract at Old Trafford that runs until 2014 as Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced he will become a first-team regular at Old Trafford.

However, there is a feeling the teenager would benefit from a loan spell away from the Premier League champions to learn more about the game.

Macheda burst onto the scene in precocious fashion with winners against Aston Villa and Sunderland last season but has struggled to earn too many opportunities this term.

Injury has prevented him from making the squad recently but, with Senegalese import Mame Biram Diouf now adding to the striking options available to Ferguson, Macheda may be released on a temporary basis.

Real Zaragoza and Newcastle have already showed an interest in his services but Bologna are hoping a return to Italy will best suit the ex-Lazio youngster.

Ferguson will be wary of being able to keep a close check on his progress should he farm Macheda out this month although an argument could be made for him staying put to add to United's firepower.

Bologna are currently struggling in Serie A as they lie in 17th position in the table.