PEC Zwolle coach John van 't Schip admits Philippe Sandler could've moved within the Eredivisie if not for Manchester City's swoop.

The young defender, 21, signed for City in January and will join the Premier League giants this summer.

Van 't Schip, after victory over Sparta Rotterdam, revealed AZ Alkmaar and PSV Eindhoven had lodged enquiries with PEC before he called City.

"PSV was not very concrete in the winter break, but AZ were," Van 't Schip told Studio Voetbal.

"I then called technical manager Txiki Begiristain of Manchester City and informed him that he is a promising player. The others not so much."

Van 't Schip is close to City, having been head coach of Australian partners Melbourne City last year.