Bianchi set for Lazio

Manchester City striker Rolando Bianchi is in Italy finalising a loan move to Serie A outfit Lazio.

The Italian has found it hard to break into the Manchester City first-team.

Bianchi is additionally unhappy about English life and manager Sven Goran Ericksson is happy to let the striker leave.

Lazio have paid a small fee to take Bianchi on loan now to fight off interest from Torino, who had been favourites for his signature.

Giacomo Mazzocchi, a Lazio spokesman, said: "There are still all the practicalities left to sort out, such as the medical and signing the contract, but the deal should be completed on Wednesday or Thursday."

Bianchi thanked Manchester City fans on the official website.

"I want to thank the City fans from the bottom of my heart.

"They have welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like one of them. I will take in my heart their passion and their attachment to the team.

"I would also like to thank Mr Thaksin Shinawatra, his family and all the people at the club for giving me the possibility to play in a beautiful and riveting tournament such as the Premier League."