Juventus midfielder Sami Khedira says he is “working towards” a move to the Premier League amid links with Tottenham and Everton.
The 33-year-old won the Champions League and La Liga during a successful five years in Spain with Real Madrid, before moving on in 2015, as he joined Juventus on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract.
Khedira is at the start of his sixth season with the Italian giants. In this time, he has helped them to win the Serie A title in every single year.
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However, he is yet to make a single appearance for the Old Lady this season and it’s likely that he will leave at the end of his contract in the summer.
“There are always ups and downs in every player’s careers,” Khedira told The Athletic.
“I don’t know anyone who’s always on the up. Do you? When I moved here from Real Madrid in 2015, I never thought I’d stay this long. Finding a club that makes you this happy and satisfied was a blessing, and I only have positive feelings about the time I’ve spent here.
“It sounds weird but even now, I love driving to the training ground every day because it’s so much fun being able to work with these amazing people and big personalities.”
When asked about not playing, Khedira added: “It’s unusual for me, and I’m not satisfied.
“I’m a competitive guy, I want to play. But in the meantime, I’ve adjusted to the situation and try to make the most of it. I’m part of match-day preparation and video analysis. My influence is still there. I see myself as a bit of a mentor for the younger players. I’m keeping my energy levels and motivation high.
“But at the end of the day, I want to be on the pitch and fight for points. That’s why I’m trying to change the situation or leave Turin to do what I enjoy most: playing football.”
On a potential move to England, Khedira continued: “The Premier League is still missing in my collection, to play there would be the icing on the cake.
“There are fewer breaks in the game and many counter-attacks, but this is what I like. I’ve done a lot of extra sessions with fitness coaches to get myself ready for a higher pace and intensity. I’ve done extra sessions with fitness coaches to get myself ready for the pace and intensity in the Premier League.
“My gut instinct and passion tell me I need to play football, if possible in the Premier League. I’m working towards that.”
Khedira has been linked with moves to Spurs and Everton with two of his former managers currently in charge of those clubs.
Recalling Spurs boss Jose Mourinho, Khedira said: “He has a way of convincing people, there’s something in his eyes.
“He’s very direct, very demanding, working with him is no picnic, because he doesn’t do things by half. If you don’t perform, you’ll get it in the neck.
“But you understand that’s because he values you as a player. The maximum is not enough for him, he pushes you to your limit. That’s how I’ve become the player and the person I am today.”
And Khedira has revealed he still talks with Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti, he said: “We’ve kept in contact over the years. Him and Jose are both amazing personalities from whom I’ve learned so much, about the game and about myself. They’re both at clubs that play an important role in the league. So let’s see what happens.”