Photo by Howard C. Smith/ISIphotos.com
By JOHN BOSCHINI
Following Landon Donovan's loan to Everton and Thierry Henry's reported loan to Arsenal, a third MLS Designated Player could be on his way to the Premier League this winter, as Aston Villa is reportedly looking to sign Los Angeles Galaxy striker Robbie Keane to a two-month loan deal.
The Ireland captain, who is currently training with former club Tottenham during the MLS offseason according to the BBC, is reportedly interested in the move as an opportunity to keep fit in the build-up to Euro 2012. Should a deal not go through, Keane will be in London for the next three weeks before returning to Los Angeles.
Villa manager Alex McLeish almost signed Keane while he was manager of Birmingham City but the deal broke down in the final stages of the negotiation. McLeish has confirmed it is unlikely funds will be made available to bring in new signings in January, and Keane could help a side that has scored a meager 22 goals this season and sits 12th in the Premier League table.
Here are some more stories to kick off your Tuesday:
ROONEY AVAILABLE AGAINST NEWCASTLE
Wayne Rooney will be available for selection for Wednesday's vital Premier League matchup with Newcastle after the England forward was suspended for Saturday's loss to Blackburn. Rooney was dropped from the side and fined a week's wages after Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was unhappy with his performance in training following a night out.
Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs are game-time decisions for the game after concerns arose about their fitness.
MCCLAREN SET TO RETURN TO TWENTE
Steve McClaren's roller-coaster ride in management appears to have taken him back to Holland, where the former England manager will reportedly take charge of FC Twente less than 18 months after leading the club to a league and cup double.
McClaren, 50, managed Twente for two seasons after a disastrous tenure at the helm of England, which saw the Three Lions miss out on Euro 2008. His success with Twente did not last, as he was fired from subsequent posts at VfL Wolfsburg in Germany and most recently Nottingham Forest of the English Championship. Should he sign on with Twente again, McClaren would replace ousted coach Co Adriaanse.
PODOLSKI RULES OUT ARSENAL SWITCH
Arsenal's quest to find a reliable striker to back up Robin Van Persie has hit a snag as Lukas Podolski ruled out a winter transfer to the Emirates. The Koln striker is reportedly unwilling to risk his place in the Germany squad for the European Championships, saying there is no guarantee of consistent playing time under Arsene Wenger.
However, neither the club nor Podolski ruled out a possible move in the summer. Arsenal reportedly has a $15 million offer on the table, but Koln is insisting on a fee at least double that amount in order to deal Podolski. His current deal runs out in 2013 and, with Koln in substantial financial trouble, it is almost certain a move will be completed before the end of Podolski's contract.
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Would Keane to Villa be a good fit? Think United will bounce back against Blackburn? What did you make of Rooney's punishment? Is it a smart move for Podolski to stay put?
Share your thoughts below.