Andrea Pirlo eyes move to New York FC

Milan: Andrea Pirlo’s move to Major League Soccer is imminent, according to reports in Italy that claim the Juventus and Italy star will sign an 18-month deal with New York City FC. Midfield legend Pirlo was a linchpin for the Turin giants on their way to a first league and Cup double in 20 years last season.

But reports in La Gazzetta dello Sport insist the 36-year-old former World Cup winner will leave Italy behind and end his career in the United States. Pirlo, whose contract expires in June 2016, was distraught after the Champions League final when Juventus were beaten 1-3 by Barcelona.

That may have represented Pirlo’s last chance to add a third Champions League winner’s medal to his collection having triumphed with AC Milan in 2003 and 2007. Gazzetta’s report said Pirlo will sign an 18-month contract in August.