NYCFC's Vieira rules out move for Juventus' Khedira

New York City FC manager Patrick Vieira is considering a number of options to improve his team, but admitted he’s not looking at a move for Juventus midfielder Sami Khedira.

The former Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder is, however, working on a deal to acquire Peruvian defender Alexander Callens, adding he’s hopeful of reaching a quick resolution to obtain the 24-year old.

Khedira was first linked with an MLS move last fall, with the Italian outlet Calcio Mercato identifying L.A. Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, and NYCFC as possible destinations. But Vieira is under the impression that 29-year-old German international prefers to remain with Juventus.

“There is nothing I can say because he’s not one of the players we are targeting – he’s playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world and he doesn’t have any intention of coming to MLS at this time,” the French manager told reporters.

Vieira added he’s optimistic about his side’s chances of landing Callens, who plays in Spain’s second tier with Numancia, but stopped short of confirming a deal is imminent.

“He is one of the players we identified as a really good player who can do really well for us – we’re in the process of talking and negotiating but there’s nothing more we can say about that now out of respect for the player and his club,” he said.