Manchester City are reportedly eyeing up a move for football’s next big thing – but it’s not his ability with the ball that makes him stand out.

Step forward Solihull Moors striker Kyle Hudlin – Britain’s tallest outfield footballer, who stands at a lofty 6ft 9ins. In comparison, former England striker and Sportsmail’s Peter Crouch is slightly shorter that Hudlin, who is 6ft 7ins.

And according to The Athletic, City have surprisingly sent scouts to watch the striker in action on Saturday, when Moors took on Notts County in a pre-season friendly.

Championship clubs Middlesbrough and Cardiff also sent representatives to watch the 21-year-old in action.

The report goes on to claim how City have been video-scouting Hudlin before deciding watch him up close and in person at Damson Park at the weekend.

Hudlin came on to make a 20-minute cameo in the second half, with the game ending in a 2-2 draw.

The forward scored nine goals in 34 National League appearances for Moors last season after taking a giant step up from Solihull United.

Solihull United are currently in the seventh tier of non-League football while Moors are at the top.

And while his goal return is nothing to be scoffed at, Hudlin did walk away with the club’s Young Player of the Year and Goal of the Year awards last season.

The Athletic are claiming that City are interested in bringing a homegrown striker who they send out on loan and develop.