Madrid keen on Keane

SPECULATION increased last night that Real Madrid have held talks with Roy Keane’s agent with a view to signing the former Manchester United midfielder.

Real are understood to have met Michael Kennedy in Madrid and sounded him out about Keane’s plans.

As a free agent, the 34-year-old has become one of the most coveted commodities in European football with a whole host of teams battling for his signature.

Bolton, West Ham, Middlesbrough and Portsmouth have all expressed their interest, although they are just a few of the reported 40 clubs hoping to sign him.

Indeed, West Brom - managed by former United team-mate Bryan Robson - became the latest side to confirm their desire to snare him yesterday.

Robson stated: “Roy has loads of options available and within a few weeks will make a decision. We’ve spoken and he knows there’s an option to come here.”

However, after over 12 years at Old Trafford, Keane might decide his future lies outside of England and the news that Real are interested is sure to have caught his attention.

Another former United team-mate, and current Real star, David Beckham has been vociferous in his attempts to convince the Real paymasters of the benefits of bringing Keane to the Santiago Bernabeu and it now appears he may get his wish.

Earlier this week, the England captain said: “I think he’s a great player and has definitely got a few more years left in him yet.

“I’d like to see him at Madrid but, at the end of the day, there’s loads of rumours about him going to different clubs and different teams. Real Madrid was always going to come up at some point so you never know.”

Real president Florentino Perez is a big fan of the feisty midfielder and his availability on a free makes him a very attractive proposition. However, the stumbling block to any move may well be Keane’s age and the fact he is reported to be seeking an 18-month deal.

Marca claim Los Merengues would be willing to offer an initial six-month deal to the Cork man in January before reviewing his situation at the end of the season.

Keane’s adviser, the lawyer Michael Kennedy, has refused to comment on the speculation.

Meanwhile Bolton boss Sam Allardyce has also confirmed that they have held talks with Keane’s representatives.

Allardyce, who is set to lose five players to the African Nations Cup in the New Year, is hoping Keane will opt for a switch to the Reebok Stadium.

West Ham have already declared their interest officially, and defender Danny Gabbidon added yesterday he would gladly put up with the ‘hairdryer treatment’ in the Upton Park changing room if it meant Keane came to East London.

“Any team would want Roy Keane. He has proven what a top-class player he is. He is a character and a leader and someone everyone would look up to,” Gabbidon said.

“He’d have a massive effect on and off the field. He is a leader and we are a fairly young team. That experience would help us younger players.

“He is still a top-class player. Those are the kind of players we want to attract to the club. If it is possible it would be a great signing.”