Reports emerged over the weekend that Keane could make a shock swoop for the Inter Milan midfielder to bring him back to England.

However, Keane says he was mystified by the rumours and admits any move to Wearside for Vieira would be unlikely.

"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."