Manchester City have signed defender Rebecca Knaak from Swedish champions FC Rosengard on a one-and-a-half year deal.

The 28-year-old is City’s first signing of the January transfer window and bolsters Gareth Taylor’s squad, who are currently without a number of key first-team players through injury.

Knaak has represented Germany at youth level and joins City after three years in Sweden, where she won the double in her first campaign before winning another league title last season.

“It feels exciting to be here,” Knaak said. “I think the WSL is the best league in the world right now. When I heard about the interest, I didn’t have to think about it because it’s such a big, big opportunity which I wanted to take.

“It was helpful for me that I already know Therese [Sjogran – City Women’s director of football]. I really trust her and her abilities, so it gives me a good feeling. The club has the highest ambitions and goals, and this also matches my own ambitions.

“I’m very proud and I feel honoured to be part of this big club. I can’t wait to get started.”

City are currently second in the Women’s Super League, six points behind leaders Chelsea.