Morgan Schneiderlin could find himself in the middle of a transfer tug-of-war this January as a host of Premier League clubs are rumoured to have taken an interest in the Frenchman.

Schneiderlin has only made two appearances in the league so far this season and didn’t even manage to make it off the bench during last week’s EFL cup victory over West Ham.

It’s clear that Jose Mourinho doesn’t rate the 27-year-old, meaning he’ll likely be made available this coming January. Schneiderlin will be desperate to get some decent minutes as soon as possible, and could prove to be a real asset to whoever takes a chance on him this January.

Manchester City will be looking for reinforcements as they look to get Pep Guardiola’s reign of to the perfect start by claiming silverware during the second half of the campaign.

The Citizens attacking power has never been doubted, but some question marks still hang over the defensive side of their game. Bringing in Schneiderlin to protect the back line could prove to be a shrewd addition to Guardiola’s team, and one that could make all the difference come the end of the season.

With that said here are TWO reasons why Manchester City should move for Schneiderlin this January…

Better quality out-an-out defensive midfielder

Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

If you look at City’s squad the only true defensive midfielder you could pick out would be Fernando. The Brazilian has hardly looked outstanding during his time in England to date and an in-form Schneiderlin would be a significant upgrade.

City have other options like Gundogan, Fernandinho and Yaya Toure, but these players are more all-rounder’s, not solely devoted to defending. Having Schneiderlin to bring on to see out games, or give that added solidarity from the start would be a great option for City to have during the second half of the season.

City’s options in defensive midfield are ageing

Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

City’s team needs freshening up in defensive midfield, although the signing of Gundogan has already helped in that respect, we here at Shoot! reckon another addition would be a good move.

Fernando at 29, Fernandinho 31, and Yaya Toure 33, are all older than Schneiderlin who has only recently turned 27. In a league where physicality is so important, being able to make the interceptions and tackles required to be an effective defensive midfielder requires significant energy levels, which become harder to maintain with age.

Signing Schneiderlin could ensure that City’s options stay fresh and that they can still perform to a high level as the look to bag silverware during the second half of the campaign.