Over the past few days, there have been reports making rounds in the media that Juventus star Sami Khedira has attracted the interest of New York City FC. The German international has also been linked with the Red Bulls and LA Galaxy, but the NYCFC reports have been more dominant lately.
But according to the club's manager Patrick Vieira, the much-hyped transfer won't happen after all. Speaking to the press on Wednesday, the Arsenal legend said:
“There is nothing I can say because he’s not one of the players that we are targeting. I think he’s playing in one of the biggest clubs in the world and he doesn’t have any intentions yet to come to MLS.”
However, the Frenchman also confirmed that the club is still willing to do business with other players before the beginning of the new season. He added:
“We’re having a conversation with some clubs, with some players. Hopefully we can finalize it as soon as possible. We have a few targets on the table and we want to be sure that we bring in the right player who can help the team, help the club get to a different level.”
The 40-year-old wants to make key signings before the begining of the new MLS season which kicks off on March 3
He also confirmed interest in Peruvian central defender Alexander Callens, who ended his contract with CD Numancia in Spain's second-tier.
“He is one of the players we identified as a good player, a really good player who can do really well for us. We are in the process of talking and negotiating with the club, but there is nothing more we can say about it because of the respect for the player and the club.”
Meanwhile, Mix Dikserud and Josh Saunders have been given permission to leave the club after being left out of the pre-season squad. The two players are, however, under contract with the Bronx-based outfit. Vieira concluded:
“Both players want to play and this is something that they will not be guaranteed at New York City.I give them an extra few weeks to try to find a solution, a solution that as a club we will be happy and the players will be happy, that all parts will be satisfied and we then we can move on.''
