Aston Villa open talks on Robbie Keane deal

Aston Villa today opened talks with LA Galaxy about bringing Robbie Keane back to the Premier League on a short-term loan deal.

The Ireland international is understood to be keen on the idea as he prepares for his nation's European Championship finals campaign this summer.

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Keane, now 31, would be available in a replica of the two-month loan deal Everton have struck with Galaxy to take Landon Donovan on loan.

But, although contact has been made by the relevant parties, the chance of Keane returning to the Midlands to wear the claret and blue hinges on the clubs agreeing a loan fee for his services.

It's not the first time Villa and Keane have come within touching distance of joining forces.

Villa agonised over signing the player after his breakthrough spell at Wolves more than 10 years ago and were then in the frame again during what proved to be the final weeks of Martin O'Neill's tenure.

As a long-time fan of the former Molineux favourite, current boss Alex McLeish is the latest in a line of Villa managers dating back to John Gregory to covet the player.

McLeish is eager to strengthen a squad thinned by the departures of so many senior players to answer the pressures from chairman Randy Lerner to bring the club's wage bill back under control.

Last season, when he was Birmingham manager, McLeish came close to signing Keane in a £6m deal from Tottenham.

The two 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 last summer.

It is believed Keane wants to stay sharp for the Euro 2012 finals by continuing to play before the MLS season begins in March.

But also chasing the same kind of deal are Celtic, where Keane has already enjoyed a loan period. The player is, however, keen on Villa and will train with his former team-mates at Spurs until January 20 to build up his fitness.