Galaxy 'interested' in Beckham

David Beckham's ambition to finish his career in the USA could arrive sooner than expected after American side the Los Angeles Galaxy confirmed their interest in the former England captain.

The Galaxy are keeping tabs on Beckham's protracted contract negotiations with Real Madrid and may launch a bid if he fails to agree a new deal. The 31-year-old's current contract runs out at the end of the season and he will be allowed to speak to other clubs from January 1 if he has not put pen to paper on a new two-year deal.

Alexi Lalas, the former US international defender who is Galaxy's president and general manager, told BBC Sport: "A move for Beckham is not something we need to discuss at this point because he's under contract with Real. But if that changes, and there's an opportunity, of course we'd be interested."

He added: "There are thousands of clubs out there that would love to have a player of his calibre and the Los Angeles Galaxy is certainly one of them.

"For many people the Los Angeles Galaxy are looked upon as the jewel of MLS. We play in the best stadium, we have had incredible success over the history of the league and we have had great individual players and great teams. There is a tradition of excellence."

Beckham played against the Galaxy in Real's pre-season tour in 2005, and has a football academy in Los Angeles. In April he said: "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.

"I want to be part of a country that is passionate about sport. I've got my academy in LA which is important to me because that is my life after the game."