VILLA KEEN ON KEANE

Aston Villa are in talks with Tottenham over the sale of striker Robbie Keane. O'Neill is apparently being urged to step up his pursuit of the Republic of Ireland star by defender Richard Dunne, a team-mate of Keane's at international level.

However, Aston Villa could face competition for the Irishman as Celtic are also believed to be pursuing Keane. The Bhoys, for whom he scored 16 goals last season while on loan from Spurs, are reportedly keen to sign him on another loan deal at Parkhead.

Tottenham paid £12 million to bring Keane back from Liverpool two seasons ago, but will apparently settle for less as Harry Redknapp looks to clear space in his squad for the players who can help his side mount a credible Champions League campaign.