Manchester City eye Southampton striker Jay Rodriguez

Manchester City have reportedly lining up a swoop for Southampton striker Jay Rodriguez in January transfer window as they are desperate for cover up front, reports The Sun.

The Sky Blues have been left short of options after the departure of Alvaro Negredo, who joined Valencia on loan on the transfer deadline day and John Guidetti to Celtic – leaving City with limited options up front.

As a result – The Premier League champions are interested in Rodriguez’s services, who scored 21 goals in 68 Premier League appearances for the Saints.

Tottenham Hotspur are also said to be interested in the England international, who was not able to contribute to  2014 World Cup campaign in Brazil due to his anterior cruciate ligament.

Rodriguez, 25, is thought to be valued at around £15 million.