Football story by Georgina Scane, Thu, 15 Dec 2005 09:56:00 GMT


LONDON - With Real Madrid President Florentino Perez stating that the Spanish giants would not make a move to sign deposed Manchester United and Northern Ireland star Roy Keane, the efforts to sign him up for Celtic have intensified.

Bolton, Everton, West ham and West Brom were also in the race for Keane's nod, but it appears that he will indeed realize his dream of finishing his career with his boyhood heroes Celtic. Meanwhile England captain David Beckham wants Keane at Real Madrid, "If we have a chance to sign Roy Keane then I'd say yes. I think he brings a lot to a team. We've got great leaders here already but I have never played with a better leader, Roy Keane would help in any team," he said. "He's had injuries this season, but I think he's got a few years left in him and knowing the kind of person he is, he can play."

Bolton meanwhile have dangled the Europe carrot in front of Keane in that if he does sign up for them, then he can take part in UEFA Cup, whereas he cannot do so with Madrid. Bolton manager Sam Allardyce said that he could not foresee them coming up with a better offer. A Celtic spokesman had no comment amid reports that Keane had agreed to a wages deal and that even though the transfer cannot happen until January 1, it was as good as a done deal.

It is also understood that Celtic's major shareholder Dermot Desmond, will be paying a part of Keane's wages directly after Chairman Brian Quinn voiced concerns over Keane's cost to the club.

If all things go according to plan then Keane should don Celtic's colors when they visit Hearts on New Year's Day. But Keane has had no math practice since September 20 and although his recovery from a foot injury is said to be complete, there are doubts if he can play for the full 90 minutes.

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