MLS expansion franchise Vancouver Whitecaps have played down rumours linking Tottenham's Robbie Keane with the club.

Whitecaps CEO Paul Barber, a former Tottenham director, admitted the club was looking at some big-name players but indicated reports suggesting Keane was set for Vancouver were premature.

"We haven't made any firm decisions on designated players but over the next few weeks, that's going to be at the top of our agenda as we move into the January transfer window," Barber said. "There are a lot of great players out there.

"Robbie Keane, having worked with him for five years - fantastic player, great guy - but we've got our minds open to a very large market."