Manchester United tried once again yesterday to persuade Roy Keane to stay at Old Trafford.

A high-powered delegation from the club were meeting Keane's solicitor Michael Kennedy in an attempt to resolve the stalemate over the midfielder's future.

Keane, who could become a free agent in the summer when his contract expires, has admitted that talks over a new deal have reached "crunch time". He will be free to sign a pre-contract agreement with another club from January 1st, and there are a number of Italian and Spanish sides jostling for his signature.

The United captain admits he is torn between staying or turning his back on the Treble-winners and joining a foreign club on a free transfer under the Bosman ruling. United have offered to make Keane the best-paid player in the club's history, but he knows he could earn much more if he goes abroad in the summer.

Keane, who scored the winner in the Intercontinental Cup against Palmeiras on Tuesday, admits he is facing a dilemma. "To walk away from Manchester United will be a wrench, but I haven't made my mind up," he said.

He told the Daily Telegraph: "Certain people want decisions. I change my mind every day. Winning things like this Toyota Cup obviously helps. Everyone knows I love the club.

"Sometimes there's politics involved. The club has been a little bit criticised over the years for being a little bit tight maybe. I've always said I understand the club's point of view, but I hope they will understand mine."