MLS set Milan Beckham deadline

The President of Major League Soccer has set a deadline of Friday for AC Milan to agree any deal to sign David Beckham from the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Beckham is on loan with the Rossoneri and has spoken of his desire to stay at the San Siro.

"If David believes he wants to continue his career in Milan and Milan want to purchase him, we're interested in accommodating that request," MLS chief Don Garber said.

"It continues to go round in circles and needs to be concluded by Friday."

The 33-year-old's loan deal is due to end on 8 March and Garber, who has to approve any potential deal, is not prepared to wait as the start of the new American football season is approaching.

"There's no reason why this should drag on," said Garber. "They either want to do it or don't want to do it.

"They need to understand that this is getting very close to the start of our season. We have plans that we need to make, and David Beckham is a part of those plans, as is every other player in the league."

In a letter sent to AEG, the investor-operator of LA Galaxy, he added: "We are prepared to be supportive of transferring David to AC Milan for a transfer fee that acknowledges the value of his services to the Galaxy and the MLS.

"However, if the issue is not resolved by the end of the week, it will be difficult, if not impossible, for us to go forward with the transfer."

Beckham signed a five-year contract with the Galaxy in January 2007, but has impressed during his brief stay in Italy.

He has scored twice in Serie A and earned a place in Milan's UEFA Cup squad list, and also regained his place in England's international squad.

Garber also confirmed that Beckham has a get-out clause in his contract that he can exercise after the 2009 season.

Beckham, speaking after England's 2-0 defeat by Spain in Seville on Wednesday night, said he wants his future resolved as quickly as possible.

"It has been going on for a while now," he said. "The negotiations have started between Milan and the Galaxy, so we'll have to wait and see."

Source: BBC Sport