More Stories

"I had two other interesting offers but I chose Lazio for my future and to boost a great team," Bianchi said,

"It's a smart decision that I thought about again and again. I'm sure it's the right choice and the future will show it. The sooner I have the chance to take the field, the happier I'll be."

Italian media said the 24-year-old is joining Lazio on loan until the end of the season, when the transfer should become permanent.

Bianchi struggled to settle at Manchester City, who he joined in July for 13 million euros (9.7 million pounds) after scoring 18 goals in Serie A with Reggina last season.

Lazio are just two points above the Serie A relegation zone and have signed the forward to help them avoid the drop.

He thanked Manchester City for giving him the chance to play in the Premier League and paid tribute to the club's fans on his Web site (www.rolandobianchi.it).

"They welcomed me with great affection, making me feel one of them immediately," he said.

"I'll always carry their passion and attachment to the team in my heart and I'll never forget their wonderful words -- Rolando Bianchi, he came from Italy, he plays for Man City."

However, in December the forward said he planned to return to Italy soon because playing abroad was not helping his chances of winning a place with the Italian national team.

Bianchi also admitted having trouble getting used to the British diet and raised doubts about English referees.

"In Italy the referee whistles as soon as a defender brushes against you," he had said. "In the Premier League you don't get a free kick even if the defender runs you over with a tank."