Roberto Di Matteo expresses Matija Nastasic interest

Schalke 04 head coach Roberto Di Matteo has confirmed that he is keen to bolster his defensive options by signing Manchester City centre-back Matija Nastasic.

It is believed that the 21-year-old is keen to depart City this month, having fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium.

Di Matteo has expressed his interest, but the former Chelsea boss has also conceded that his club face competition for the Serbian's signature.

"Yes, we want him, but we aren't the only ones. Nastasic is an interesting player, very talented and, despite his young age, already experienced," Di Matteo said at a fans' event.

Nastasic joined City from Serie A outfit Fiorentina in 2012.