Roy Keane's representative claims it may be the summer before the midfielder signs a new contract with Manchester United.
It had been reported over the weekend that Keane would agree a new deal with United within the next two weeks.
Michael Kennedy has confirmed that preliminary talks have begun but claims it could be six months before they are finished.
Kennedy also said there is no rush because Keane's current deal, worth around £52,000-a-week sterling, does not expire until the end of next season.
"He's got 18 months to go yet, so it's still early days," said Kennedy. "There have been some preliminary discussions, but there's a long way to go yet".
United backed Kennedy's claims and said that although they are keen to keep Keane no new deal is imminent.
The Republic of Ireland midfielder, who is 30, has already said he would like to remain at Old Trafford but would also like to play for Celtic before he retires.
PA