The Black Cats were given permission to talk to Keane after agreeing an undisclosed fee with Leeds.

But the Republic of Ireland front man wants to fight for his place at Elland Road.

"I do not want to speak to any other club," he said on Tuesday.

"I am happy at Leeds and am confident that I can impress any new manager with my ability and commitment."

The Black Cats were hoping to open talks with the 21-year-old over personal terms before completing a deal.

The �12m signing from Inter Milan starred at the World Cup finals but struggled for first-team football following the arrival of Robbie Fowler at Elland Road last November.

His move to the Stadium of Light could prove the catalyst for a possible move for Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips, who has been the subject of transfer speculation.

Keane scored three goals in Ireland's run to the second round of the World Cup, when they were defeated by Spain.

Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale admitted earlier this year that the club would need to recoup around �15m before signing any new players this summer.

David O'Leary was believed to be unhappy at suggestions that the club might sell �30m-plus-rated defender Rio Ferdinand and was sacked last week. Sunderland boss Peter Reid has come under fire from Black Cats fans for his failure to make big-money signings.

He has been seeking a new striker to replace Niall Quinn, whose playing time in recent seasons has been limited by a back injury.