Leicester consider loaning out Matty James

Leicester City midfielder Matty James could leave the champions on loan next month, after being targeted by Hull City and Swansea.

James has made just one appearance as a substitute in 19 months after suffering a serious knee injury but Leicester are considering the prospect of sending him out on a short-term deal.

Howerver, Leicester are understood to be reluctant on loaning him to either Hull or Swansea as they are viewed as relegation rivals, with Claudio Ranieri's team just three points above the bottom three.

Mike Phelan, the Hull manager, knows James well from his time at Manchester United and is desperate for reinforcements as he attempts to keep the club in the Premier League.

Swansea also identified James as a potential signing before Bob Bradley's sacking and it remains to be seen whether they retain an interest.

James, 25, played a huge role in Leicester's 'Great Escape' two seasons ago under Nigel Pearson, forming a formidable partnership with Esteban Cambiasso and even keeping Danny Drinkwater out of the team.

But he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament against Southampton in May and experienced a number of setbacks in his recovery, missing all of Leicester's historic title triumph last season.

The midfielder made an appearance as a substitute earlier this month against Manchester City and is now fully fit and ready to restart his career.

A number of Championship clubs, including Aston Villa and Wolves, are also interested and dropping down a division for the remainder of the season could appeal to James.