QPR sign Federico Macheda on loan from Manchester United

Macheda has a contract which keeps him at Old Trafford until 2014

Queens Park Rangers have signed striker Federico Macheda on loan until the end of the season from Manchester United.

The 20-year-old Italian, who has not started a Premier League game this term, is manager Neil Warnock's first signing of the January transfer window.

Warnock told the club website: "This is a great opportunity for both parties.

"He is positive, always in and around the box and can finish too. If we can get him the ball in the right areas, I am sure he will get us a few goals."

Macheda, who has a contract at Old Trafford until 2014, spent time on loan with Sampdoria in Serie A last season but has struggled to find a way into first-team reckoning this season.

He has only made three appearances as a substitute in the league and his only three starts came in the Carling Cup.

Warnock added: "Federico is not getting a regular game at Old Trafford, quite obviously because of the quality of the squad they've got.

"Everyone in the league is in envy of what Sir Alex Ferguson has got there but what he is trying to do is get Federico some game time. I am sure he is still part of their future plans."