Man United defender set for Genoa loan move

Genoa could sign Manchester United defender Alexander Buttner on loan this month, according to the player's agent.

Buttner has struggled to make an impact since joining United from Vitesse Arnhem in 2012, managing just five league starts.

A clutch of European clubs have been linked with him since the summer, with Galatasaray believed to be among the front-runners to sign the Dutchman.

However his representative Alexander Bursac says the full-back could instead be on his way to Italy, with Genoa confident of clinching a temporary deal.

Bursac told TMW: "Moving to Italy? It is possible during the winter transfer market, but the deal obviously depends on the intentions of Manchester United. They are going to focus on the boy, so I only think the transfer can take place as a loan deal.

"I know that Genoa have made a request to Manchester United - I had contact with them and I think we can complete a loan deal.

"In the past I have also had contact with the leaders of Roma, but I am not aware of recent interest from them in my client."