Defender Giuseppe Bellusci says joining United this summer was the “best choice” of his life and believes the Championship suits his style of play.

Bellusci initially arrived on a one-year loan from Catania in August, but United soon opted to make the move permament as he penned a four-year deal.

The 25-year-old has already made a big impression at Elland Road, scoring twice from defence in his eight appearances so far for the club.

Bellusci, who is capped at Under-21 level for Italy, says he needed little persuading to make the switch to West Yorkshire earlier this season.

"When my agent proposed the transfer to me in the summer, there was a spark - the best choice of my life," he told Italian newspaper Tuttosport.

The Italian defender admits he is still getting to grips with learning a new language and says he will take lessons with his team-mates, but he is enjoying the pace of the Championship.

"On the field I found a game based on dynamism and aggression, my own characteristics," he said.

"Off the field, the language is a barrier but I’m improving. Us Italians are planning to attend together.

"I have never felt so at ease on an English field."

Fellow Italian Mirco Antenucci is a former Catania team-mate of Bellusci’s, having had two spells at the club, and he arrived from Ternana this summer on a two-year deal.

The 30-year-old is aware of United’s history and is hoping that he and his countrymen can help return the club to the top flight.

"We try to raise it again with the Italians," Antenucci also told Tuttosport.

"President Massimo Cellino has great expertise and important ambitions, and the Sporting Director Nicola Salerno is a guarantee for success."