By Mark Heys
December 11 2005

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce says that the club are still very much in the race to sign former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane despite weekend speculation which suggested that the Irishman had all but sealed a move to Real Madrid. Allardyce confirmed that Wanderers chairman Phil Gartside will contact Keane's representative Michael Kennedy with an offer within the next two days or so.

"You can't rule us out.We are very interested in signing Roy (Keane).The chairman will contact Keane's representatives in the next couple of days with our offer.

"He would be a tremendous signing for Bolton and I'm very excited about the prospect." Allardyce told the official website

Spanish news source Marca had claimed today that the 34-year old Keane had undergone a medical with Spanish giants Real Madrid but Bolton will not give up easily in their pursuit of the midfield veteran.

Friday's reports claimed that Keane wanted to stay located in the North West area with either the Trotters or Everton but a final decision is expected to be made within the week.