Federico Macheda's agent claims Lazio are keen on re-signing the Manchester United striker.

The 21-year-old joined Stuttgart on loan in January and is set to finish the season in Germany. The player's representative, Giovanni Bia, stated the Italian's former club Lazio are interested in taking him back to Serie A in the summer but also revealed Stuttgart have the option to keep him, if they wish to.

Federico Macheda
Reuters

"For the moment there is not that possibility [of a move to Lazio]. He is fine in Germany, the club are very pleased. Lazio is the club where he grew up and they would like him to come home, but it all depends on Stuttgart, who have the option to buy him at the end of the season," Bia said.

Macheda joined United from the Lazio academy in 2007, as a 16-year-old. The striker, who struggled for game time at Old Trafford, has already made nine appearances in all competitions for Stuttgart, including two starts in the Europa League and earlier said he would be open to a permanent stay.

"The move (to Stuttgart) was only a loan option but I knew there would be a chance to remain at the club after it, If Stuttgart want to sign me permanently, I would be very happy," Macheda pointed out.

"Back at Manchester United it was always difficult for me due to the competition for first team spots. It would be great to remain at Stuttgart. Over here the coaches are working with young players and I feel I could progress at this club as a player," the Italian added.

Meanwhile, Stuttgart defender Serdar Tasci hailed Lazio's cutting edge in front of goal, which helped them post a 5-1 aggregate victory over the Germans in the first knock-out round of the Europa League.

"You could say it was their effectiveness which made the difference. We played a decent first leg, but we conceded cheap goals and did not take our chances so it is obviously hard then to get anything from the second leg," the German international said.

Germany Manchester United FC