Report: Beckham has option to buy MLS franchise when Galaxy contract expires

Associated Press

Originally published 06:33 p.m., March 20, 2008
Updated 06:33 p.m., March 20, 2008

CARSON, Calif. - David Beckham has an option to buy an MLS franchise when his five-year Los Angeles Galaxy contract expires after the 2011 season, according to a CBS "60 Minutes" profile scheduled to air Sunday.

The program was to report the option was granted to the 32-year-old midfielder and his manager, Simon Fuller.

"We don't comment on rumor or speculation," Simon Oliveira, Beckham's spokesman, said Thursday in an e-mail to The Associated Press. "David's focus at present is on playing for the Galaxy and his country."

Beckham, who joined the Galaxy last season, could make his 100th international appearance for England in next week's friendly at France. The Galaxy opens the MLS season March 29 at Colorado.

Neither the league nor the Galaxy would comment.

"Our policy is we don't comment on potential owners of Major League Soccer teams," MLS spokesman Dan Courtemanche said. "Ultimately, if individuals or groups are interested in purchasing a Major League Soccer team, it's their option whether or not they want to express it publicly. We're a private company, and those matters remain private."

Beckham signed a five-year contract that pays him $5.5 million annually, plus a share of revenues from ticket, merchandise and concessions sales. Limited by injuries, Beckham played eight MLS and tournament games in his first season with the Galaxy, getting one goal and three assists while making four starts.