10/06/2003

Man Utd accept Barcelona's bid for Beckham

Manchester United have confirmed that they have accepted a bid for midfielder David Beckham from Spanish giants Barcelona.

The news follows days of speculation over the future of the England captain and where he is likely to end up playing next season.

In a statement released on its official website, a club spokesperson said: "Manchester United confirms that club officials have met Joan Laporta, the leading candidate for the Presidency of Barcelona. These meetings have resulted in an offer being made for the transfer of David Beckham to Barcelona."

However the move depends on whether Laporta is successful in his attempt at landing the Barca presidency. He currently lags behind presidential favourite, Luis Bassat, who claimed today he will not be signing Beckham if he becomes president because of "financial constraints".

Other factors which could prove decisive will be Beckham's personal terms for a club which will not be involved in Champions League football next season because of this season's poor finish.

The England captain will also want to keep his options open with Real Madrid, AC Milan and Inter Milan all showing a key interest in his talents.

Barcelona's presidency elections take place on Sunday 15 June.

(MB)

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