NYCFC Target Joey Pelupessy Confirms MLS Interest

Last week news emerged that New York City FC was targeting Heracles Almelo midfielder Joey Pelupessy. Today the Heracles captain confirmed that the interest from NYCFC was “pretty serious” in an interview with RTV Oost, adding that he plans to leave Heracles when his contract expires.

“I haven’t spoken to New York (City FC) myself, the two clubs may be negotiating about that, but otherwise I don’t know much about it. It’s a nice option, I’m open to a lot of things,” said Pelupessy about the status of the talks between the two sides.

When asked if he was too young to make such a move he seemed to be unsure, adding a level of uncertainty to the move. “Yes, you can certainly say that I haven’t thought about such a move so deeply, it is of course very far away and maybe a good competition (MLS), but otherwise I don’t know very much about it. It’s serious and is very close (to happening), I might have to think about it, but of course I’m always open to other steps”, said Pelupessy.

The 24-year-old midfielder added that he had never been to New York but says if he does go to New York it would be for football reasons, as opposed to just collect a check. Pelupessy primarily plays as a defensive midfielder which would mean he would be competing with Alexander Ring and Yangel Herrera for playing time in midfield. With Herrera’s loan expiring at the end of this year he could also be a long-term signing in the position if he plays well.

Joey Pelupessy is currently under contract through summer of 2018 and his side is reluctant to let their captain go on a free transfer before his contract expires. However, las week Heracles’ director Nico-Jan Hoogma left the door open for a transfer should NYCFC make a transfer bid instead of hoping for a free transfer. Heracles stand to lose him and gain nothing once his contract expires this summer.

Claudio Reyna’s front office has recently found success in signing under-appreciated players on expiring contracts such as Alexander Ring, Anton Tinnherholm, Alexander Callens and Frederic Brillant.

NYCFC are currently in the off-season with Patrick Vieira’s side looking to bounce back from another early MLS Cup Playoff exit.