Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni claims it is important for Robbie Keane to join Liverpool, but Tottenham Hotspur manager Juande Ramos is highly unlikely to let the Irish striker go if Dimitar Berbatov leaves Spurs.

Spurs’ top two forwards Berbatov and Keane are both linked with a move out of the White Hart Lane this summer to Manchester United and Liverpool respectively. Moreover, Darren Bent could also be sold with Sunderland said to be keen on the former Charlton man, who failed to make an impression for the north-Londoners having joined last summer in a club record deal.

Trapattoni is quoted as saying: “I don’t know what is happening with Liverpool at the moment but I would be very happy for him (to move). I hope it happens for him because it will be a big challenge. It would be important for him and important for us.”

The Daily Mail also reports that Liverpool are confident Keane wants to move to Anfield, but Spurs are determined to keep the 27-year-old vice-captain.>