The chances of Robbie Keane playing in the A-League were dealt a major blow on Friday after the Republic of Ireland striker priced himself well beyond the reach of one club.
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Brisbane Roar officially withdrew their pursuit of the former Tottenham and Liverpool star after their offer was deemed well below the the player's asking price. It leaves Western Sydney Wanderers as the Australian frontrunners in the race for Keane's signature, though as negotiations continue, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that an A-League club will be able to afford his services.
Brisbane coach John Aloisi confirmed his team will not sign Keane in the January transfer window, despite the club easily convincing the 36-year-old of playing in the A-League. Keane is understood to be very interested in playing in Australia but it remains to be seen whether any club can match rival offers.
Fairfax Media understands Brisbane Roar submitted an 18-month proposed deal to Keane's management worth well in excess of $2 million, not including financial contributions from Football Federation Australia worth more than $500,000. The proposal would have included a 14-game guest stint for the remainder of this season before Keane became either a marquee or a season-long guest player for the following year.
However, talks between the club, the FFA and the players' management hit a wall when the Australian parties were informed the offer was not even close to his demands.
Keane parted ways with Major League Soccer club Los Angeles Galaxy last month where he was earning $4.7 million per season and has already attracted interest from cashed-up clubs in Qatar, UAE and China as well as Australia.
Western Sydney Wanderers suggest Keane remains their No.1 target for the January transfer window, though talks remain at a "very preliminary" stage. It's understood the FFA and Wanderers are yet to enter discussions over an offer for Keane that would require joint funding from the governing body. Head of the A-League Greg O'Rourke says the FFA will financially assist any club looking to sign a high-profile guest player that meets their stringent criteria.
"The FFA are still keen to support our clubs to find the right marquees to continue the growth of the game," O'Rourke said.
