Villa optimistic on Keane loan

Press Association Sport understands Villa has held what was described by sources close to the club as "productive talks" with the Republic of Ireland international.

Keane is set to link up with Villa for a two-month period in a $750,000 deal before returning to Galaxy for the start of the Major Soccer League campaign in March.

If all goes to plan, Keane could face his Galaxy team-mate Landon Donovan, who has returned to Everton for a second loan spell, on his Villa debut.

Then Villa manager John Gregory tried to sign Keane 12 years ago from Wolves but the midlands club would not meet the asking price and he moved instead to Coventry.

Keane is maintaining his fitness by training with his former club Tottenham.

But he is keen to retain his sharpness by playing during the MLS break ahead of this year's Euro 2012 finals.

Meanwhile, Villa has distanced itself from reports claiming it has held talks with Tottenham over a possible move for midfielder Niko Kranjcar.