Everton and Bolton back in market for Keane

The lack of lucrative contract offers for Roy Keane since he quit Manchester United three weeks ago has improved the prospects of either Everton or Bolton keeping the former Old Trafford captain in the Premiership.

David Moyes and Sam Allardyce were among the first managers to make contact with Keane's representative Michael Kennedy on 18 November, but were dissuaded from furthering their interest by the 34-year-old's wage demands.

However, the managerial upheaval at Real Madrid and the absence of a firm offer from Italy have reduced Keane's options. The Premiership clubs are now considering a renewed approach, on the basis that he accepts a reduced salary and an 18-month contract.

Everton and Bolton can offer Keane the attraction of continuing to live in Cheshire while Phil Neville is believed to have been asked to help influence his former team-mate in the direction of Goodison Park. But Celticare monitoring the situation in the hope the midfielder lowers his demands even further.