Robbie Keane has just hours to save the Galaxy – the transfer deal that is

Robbie Keane is wanted by the LA Galaxy – but he has just hours to complete a lucrative move to the West Coast of America.

The Major League Soccer outfit have confirmed to Irish Central that they want the Ireland captain to join David Beckham at the Home Depot Stadium.

But the MLS transfer window closes on Sunday night meaning Keane has to receive his international clearance by close of business in Los Angeles to complete his move from Spurs.

“We would have to have all the paperwork complete and international clearance in place by the close of business here on Sunday night,” confirmed a spokesman for the Galaxy.

Keane’s arrival at the Galaxy will spell the end of the line for the club’s Colombian striker and former Aston Villa star Juan Pablo Angel.

MLS clubs are only allowed three designated players under strict wage structures and Keane will join Beckham and US World Cup star Landon Donovan in that category.

A two-year deal, believed to be worth $9million, is on offer to Keane whose transfer fee from Spurs will be minimal after falling out of favour with boss Harry Redknapp.

Ireland’s captain and record goalscorer, Keane will insist on a loan spell back in England as part of his move to LA Galaxy – to protect his international career.

The Dubliner has already consulted Irish boss Giovanni Trapattoni about the move and received assurances that it will not affect his Ireland place.

Wife Claudine is also keen to join the Beckhams in Los Angeles but, like former England captain David, Keane will demand a return to Europe in the MLS close season at the end of the year.

“Robbie is desperate to get to the European Championship finals with Ireland next year and he won’t let anything get in the way of that,” revealed a source close to the player.

“He is interested in playing in America, he has said that previously, but only if he can play in Europe when their season ends to stay sharp for the Irish team.”

The 31-year-old Keane has admitted that he has no future at Spurs under Harry Redknapp.

“I will be moving, clubs are talking and it will be sorted out soon,” said Keane, captain as Ireland drew 0-0 with Croatia in midweek.

LA Galaxy officials are already in talks to play a potential friendly in Dublin in November, probably against Shamrock Rovers in Keane’s hometown of Tallaght, if they sign Ireland’s record goalscorer.

Galaxy officials also worked with Spurs on their unsuccessful bid to move to the Olympic Stadium in London while Beckham trained with Tottenham last winter.