Villa closing on Keane

Robbie Keane has begun training with Aston Villa and is expected to finalise a return to the Premier League on a short-term loan in the next 24 hours.

Striker set to complete loan switch in the next 24 hours

Robbie Keane has begun training with Aston Villa and is expected to finalise a return to the Premier League on a short-term loan in the next 24 hours. The Republic of Ireland international departed English shores in August 2011, with the Los Angeles Galaxy having lured him to the MLS. Keane enjoyed a productive first season in America, with the Galaxy claiming MLS Cup glory. He is, however, looking to return to Europe during the American off-season, with it important for him to maintain his fitness levels and match sharpness ahead of Euro 2012. The 31-year-old has been training with former employers Tottenham Hotspur since returning to England, but he is keen to find regular football. Villa are prepared to offer him those opportunities, with Alex McLeish confirming that the club are looking to tie up a deal. Keane has now arrived in the Midlands to put the finishing touches to an agreement and he could be a Villa player by the time they play host to Everton on Saturday.