Celtic: Door open to Keane

Celtic have denied having an agreement in place with Roy Keane but have opened the door to his possible signing.

Manchester United stunned the footballing world by announcing that they and their inspirational skipper had gone their separate ways.

Speculation started immediately about where Keane will go next but many expect him to arrive at Parkhead soon.

The Glasgow giants have dismissed suggestions a deal has been done but they made it clear that they would be happy to open talks with the Republic of Ireland star.

Responding to the speculation, a Celtic spokesperson said: “Roy Keane was a magnificent player and servant for Manchester United but he also knows all about Celtic.

“If at any time Roy would like to speak to us about his future and Celtic’s, we would be only too happy to speak to him, but as yet there have been no discussions.”

But Lisbon Lion Jim Craig has questioned whether Gordon Strachan would want Keane at Celtic. Keane has expressed a desire to end his playing career at Parkhead, so it is understandable his name would be linked with the Hoops.

But while Strachan is an admirer of the 34-year-old, he would be reluctant to break his strict wage barrier.

Craig also fears Celtic will look like a “retirement home” or “graveyard” for ageing players, who have seen their better years and are now being troubled by injuries.

He told PA Sport: “What you have got to look at is would Roy Keane bring something to Celtic?

“He has more experience than all the players, he is a Champions League winner but you have got to ask is he the same Roy Keane at the height of his powers? The answer to that is no.

“Is he able to play even a third of the season through injury? He has not been able to do that with United. Will things get any better next season and thereafter?

“Will he also be a disruptive influence behind the scenes? He occasionally was at Manchester United.

“Somebody has to answer those questions. Will he also take a considerable drop in wages from what he has been on?

“Why should Celtic be the graveyard or retirement home for players who are not at the height of their powers?”