Federico Macheda has revealed that he wants to extend his loan agreement with Bundesliga outfit Stuttgart.

The 21-year-old, currently on loan from Manchester United, has made 14 appearances in all competitions since arriving at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in January, but is still waiting for his first goal for the club.

The Italian stated his desire to return to Old Trafford at some point, revealing that his relationship with manager Sir Alex Ferguson is "great".

However, Macheda believes that limited first-team opportunities will have a detrimental effect on his development and he would rather play regularly elsewhere.

"My experience at Stuttgart is going very well," he told Calciomercato.it. "I have immediately familiarised myself, and the relationship with my teammates and coaches is great.

"In June the loan will end but I already have a verbal agreement with Stuttgart to extend my stay. If there is a chance to, I would be really happy to stay.

"My relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson is great and it's clear that I have always had the desire to return and play for the Red Devils, but returning now would not be good for my career because I need to play with continuity."

Macheda has recently been linked with a move back to Lazio, where he spent time as a youth player.