Aston Villa are optimistic they will complete the loan signing of Los Angeles Galaxy striker Robbie Keane in time for their next Premier League against Everton on Jan 14.

According to reports Aston Villa have held what were 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 £500,000 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.