Manchester City eye shock move for Bundesliga midfielder

Manchester City are interested in a shock loan move for Schalke midfielder Sebastian Rudy, claims The Sun.

Pep Guardiola had previously ruled out any January signings but it has now emerged the City boss is eyeing a move for Rudy to provide back-up for Fernandinho.

City failed with summer moves for Fred and Jorginho and will finally sign his long-term replacement at the end of the season.

Guardiola’s side are still involved in all four competitions this season but the Spaniard is concerned a lack of depth in Fernandinho’s position could derail their hopes later on in the campaign.

City accept they will not land one of their main transfer targets this month but now they are sounding out a temporary move for Germany international Rudy.

The 28-year-old left Bayern Munich after 18 months at the club to join Schalke last summer but he has struggled for regular playing time this season.

Rudy has made just eight appearances in the Bundesliga and has a lowsy WhoScored rating of 6.30 in that time.