Vieira: We Have Options for Acquisitions

Head Coach Patrick Vieira has admitted that a deal for Peruvian international defender Alexander Callens is being discussed but has ruled out a move for Sami Khedira.

The Frenchman told journalists in a media conference call from the club’s Jacksonville training camp that a number of options were being weighed up for new arrivals to NYCFC in the offseason.

Vieira said that he hopes deals will be concluded “as soon as possible” with more than a month still to go until the start of the MLS season.

On 24-year old Peruvian defender Callens of Numancia, Patrick said: “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.”

On Khedira: “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.”

On other potential targets, Patrick hinted that good progress was being made.

Vieira revealed: “We’re trying to bring in players as soon as possible – we’re having conversations with some clubs and players and hopefully we can finalize this as soon as possible.

“We have some targets on the table and we want to be sure we find the right player to help the team and the club go forward.

“We’re just looking for a good player. Age is not a problem for me. We’re looking for the talent – players who will make a difference, who will help us win games.”

On the call, Patrick also talked through his first impressions of new NYCFC signing, Jonathan Lewis.

The MLS Combine MVP has impressed his new Head Coach but Vieira still believes the 19-year old has a lot to learn as the gap between college soccer and MLS is so vast.

“Jonathan is for me a proper winger – especially the way we want to play, he can really express his talent,” Vieira said.

“Between college and MLS is a massive gap which he will need to adjust himself – to improve, to learn. I will have to be patient with him.

“With the way he’s been working in the last few weeks, he’ll challenge Khiry and Jack and any other player who can play in that position. He’s not shy, he has self-confidence which I like.”