Sunderland manager Roy Keane has dismissed rumours he is keen on signing former adversary Patrick Vieira in the January transfer window.

Reports over the weekend suggested Keane could make a swoop for the Inter Milan midfielder to bring him back to the Premier League.

However, Keane admits he is mystified by the rumours and admits it is unlikely the French international would move to Wearside.

"I haven't got a clue where it has come from. It's not fair on the club or Patrick Vieira," said Keane.

He added: "He's at a club, he is under contract and good luck to him. I am sure if you asked him, he has got no intentions of leaving Inter Milan or wherever he is at.

"If he was going to leave there, I am not sure Sunderland would be at the top of his list."

Former Manchester United captain Keane and former Arsenal skipper Vieira enjoyed an intense rivalry during their time playing against each other in the Premier League and are widely regarded as two of the sport's greatest midfielders.