Federico Macheda backs Matteo Darmian to settle quickly at Manchester United

Ex-Manchester United striker Federico Macheda has backed countryman Matteo Darmian to thrive in England ahead of his imminent arrival at Old Trafford.

According to BBC Sport, Darmian is widely expected to complete a £12.9m ($19.8m) switch to the Premier League giants this week after Torino club president Urbano Cairo and head coach Giampiero Ventura both gave their blessings to the move.

United have had five Italians play first team matches for them throughout their history, and one of them, in Macheda, says his former Italy Under-21 teammate is primed to make the required impact.

"Matteo must certainly expect great things when joining a world-class club," Macheda told talkSPORT. "I wish him all the best and feel he is ready for this adventure.

"Wearing the Red Devils jersey is certainly a big responsibility, because you feel this scary weight of history on your shoulders and realise that every time you pull the shirt on.

"Darmian has character and if he finds consistency then I am sure he'll settle in very well. English football is much more physical and in his role it's important to push forward as well as defend, but his characteristics already suit that."

Darmian is set to become United's second signing of the summer as manager Louis van Gaal looks to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League title next season and make an impact upon their return to the Champions League.

Of the imminent deal, Torino boss Ventura told Sky Italia: ""Because of his desire, humility and will to achieve things, it's right to grant him the opportunity to realise a dream to play in the Champions League in a team that will fight to win it."

United are also trying to finalise a deal for Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin before they depart for their pre-season tour of the US, according to the Guardian.