Andy Keogh to join Cardiff in Wolves clearout

Andy Keogh's departure to Cardiff is expected to pave the way for a late flurry of Wolves activity in the transfer market with Michael Mancienne ready to return to Molineux.

Wolves are also eyeing a possible striker swoop to boost depleted numbers up front.

Ireland international Keogh has joined the Bluebirds on a season-long loan with a view to a permanent move as personal terms have been thrashed out for Chelsea utility man Mancienne to rejoin Wolves in a similar deal.

Wolves would like to sign the 22-year-old permanently and offered up to £4m for the former England Under-21 international.

But it is understood the Double winners were unwilling to accept a penny less than £5m in negotiations with billionaire owner Roman Abramavich.

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy knew he had to move players on before he could add to his five summer signings.

He is now four forwards light after the £500,000 departure of Chris Iwelumo to Burnley and the outgoing loans of Stefan Maierhofer, Sam Vokes and Keogh.

Ironically, Keogh replaces Leeds-bound Ross McCormack at the Cardiff after the Whites refused to meet the £2.5m asking price to take the Ireland international back to Elland Road.

Keogh joins a host of former Wolves faces in the Welsh capital, with Lee Naylor, Gabor Gyepes, Jay Bothroyd and on-loan Seyi Olofinjana now also serving ex-Wolves boss Dave Jones.

McCarthy confirmed Keogh's departure after last night's 2-1 Carling Cup win over Southend, saying: "It's a racing certainty Andy is going to Cardiff. He didn't want to be cup-tied.

"He has been fabulous here both for me and this football club. It's a good move and good luck to him.

"He doesn't want to be fourth in line here which I can fully understand.

"It was my decision but he goes with our best wishes and warmest regards."

By Tim Nash