Brazilian defender Fabio has moved to Queens Park Rangers on loan for the next season.

The Manchester United player was injured for much of last season and has found it hard to establish a starting place at Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old will spend the entire 2012-13 season on loan, where he will work under former United player and current QPR manager Mark Hughes.

Fabio joined United from Fluminense in 2008 with twin brother Rafael, who penned a new four-year contract with United on Monday.

Fabio has made a total of 53 appearances for United, scoring two goals.

"I think a year out at a good level playing every week will make Fabio a real top player for us," United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said.

Fabio said the move would help build his confidence. ""I'm so happy to be here," Fabio told QPR's official website.

"This loan is so important for me in terms of my career. I want to play as many games as possible here. I want to play well and win games as well.

"It's a good move for my career and for my confidence. Sir Alex Ferguson said that I'd enjoy it here and told me to play as many games as I can.

"I know that QPR is a club with great history. I read about the history and that's why I'm here.

"I also came here because I'm ambitious. I want to help QPR progress up the Premier League. Hopefully the fans will enjoy watching me in action, because I'll do my best."

Hughes hoped Fabio would be a success at Loftus Road. "It's a great opportunity for us to loan a good, young player, who has decent experience of playing for a top club like Manchester United.

"He's played a lot of senior games for United, so it shows the quality he's got.

"I know they think very highly of him and we believe he has all the attributes to be a success here next season."