Villa want to snap up Keane on loan deal

MCLEISH AN ADMIRER OF IRISH ATTACKER

A STONVILLA are interested in signing Los Angeles Galaxy attacker Robbie Keane on a two-month loan deal.

Villa have discussed the possibility of signing Keane in a move similar to the one where Galaxy team- mate Landon Donovan rejoined Everton.

Villa manager Alex Mcleish has limited funds to spend during the January transfer window. But he is an admirer of the Republic of Ireland international and last season came close to signing him when Birmingham manager in a £6million deal with Tottenham.

The clubs agreed a fee but personal terms proved a stumbling block and Keane joined West Ham on loan before making the switch to the United States during last summer.

Villa also came close to signing Keane, 31, when he left Wolves 12 years ago but could not agree a fee and he joined Coventry.

If Keane came to Villa, he would link up with Ireland team-mates Shay Given and Richard Dunne.

Keane wants to stay sharp for the Euro 2012 finals by continuing to play before the Major Soccer League season begins in March. But terms with Keane and Galaxy have yet to be finalised.