The Los Angeles Galaxy have confirmed they are interested in
signing David Beckham if the former England captain fails to renew
his Real Madrid deal.
Out of contract in Spain at the end of the season, the 31-year-old
midfielder is believed to be considering a move.
Beckham, who played against the Galaxy for Real in a pre-season
game in 2005, has already said that he would like to end his career
in the US. "I've one year left at Real, and maybe two more after
that, but things can change in football and the American league
does interest me," said Beckham.
"I want to be part of a country that is passionate about sport. And
I've got my academy in LA, which is important to me because that is
my life after the game."
As well as the Galaxy, Celtic, Spurs and Israeli club Maccabi
Netanya have been reported as possible destinations for the
high-profile star.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Lalas, the Galaxy's president and general
manager, made it clear that Beckham would suit his team, "For many
people the Los Angeles Galaxy are looked upon as the jewel of MLS,"
he said.
"We play in the best stadium, we have had incredible success over
the history of the league and "All of this leads to this race to
become the first 'MLS super club', if you will.
When asked for a firmer statement of intent regarding a possible
bid for Beckham, Lalas was careful not to say anything that could
be regarded as 'tapping up'.
"A move for Beckham is not something we need to discuss at this
point because he's under contract with Real," he said. "But if that
changes, and there's an opportunity, of course we'd be
interested."
The former US international did, however, admit that the Galaxy's
owner, sports conglomerate Anschutz Entertainment Group, has a
close relationship with Beckham.
His academy shares a home with the Galaxy just outside LA at the
27,000-seat Home Depot Center in Carson, California.
Brand Beckham attempts to break America at the 2003 MTV Awards