BT SPORT READY TO SWOOP FOR KEANE

BT SPORT are eyeing up Roy Keane as a pundit for next season, Sportsmail can reveal. The broadcasters face a void in their line-up, following Steven Gerrard’s departure to manage Rangers, and the likely need to replace Frank Lampard, if he becomes manager at Derby.And BT bosses are keen to sign up Keane, the former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain. The 46-year-old, who is the assistant manager of the Republic of Ireland, is popular among viewers for his studio analysis and will be one of ITV’s key pundits during the World Cup in Russia. And Sportsmail understands BT Sport are poised to offer him a contract to be part of their Premier League and Champions League coverage next season. Gary Lineker marked the imminent changes to the broadcaster’s pundit line-up after the Champions League final last Saturday. Speaking to Gerrard, Lampard and Rio Ferdinand — who is staying with BT Sport — he said: ‘What about you Frank, are you here to stay? We’ve lost Steven, he is off to Rangers. Now lots of rumours about Derby.’ Before going off-air, Lineker said: ‘Steven, wish you well. Whatever happens Frank, wish you well. Rio, thanks very much as ever.’ When Ferdinand remarked: ‘I will be here,’ Lineker quipped: ‘Good, glad someone will be.’ BT Sport are also believed to want to hire Vincent Kompany. Meanwhile, Alan Pardew could be lured back to Sky Sports after parting ways with West Brom. He joined as a pundit for the 2017-18 season, before being appointed West Brom manager in November. His lack of a managerial role opens up the possibility of returning to TV.