Manchester City defender Ko Itakura admits he's open to staying permanently with Schalke.

The Japan international's loan carries a €6m permanent option.

"Of course I can imagine staying here. Schalke is a big club with a long history and great fans. Every player dreams of playing in front of such a breathtaking backdrop," Itakura told SPOX.

“The club has enormous potential. The most important thing next season will be to recommend myself for the World Cup with good performances. My long-term goal is to play in the Premier League – and I would like to achieve that with Schalke this season."

Itakura's permanent option runs to June 16.