Beckham to sign for Real Madrid, at last!

England captain David Beckham has finally agreed to sign for Spanish giants Real Madrid for just under £25 million.

The deal was confirmed last night by Manchester United and will see Beckham signing up for a phased four-year contract.

The transfer fee is expected to be paid over a four-year period with an initial £5.5 million being paid up front. A further £12 million will be split into four yearly payments with the remaining £7 million being dependent on Real's performances in the Champions League.

In a statement released shortly afterwards, the England star expressed his delight at the move. He said: "I recognise that this is an amazing opportunity for me at this stage in my career and a unique and exciting experience for my family.

"I know that I will always regret it later in life if I had turned down the chance to play at another great club like Real Madrid, which also has world-class players."

United Manager Alex Ferguson praised Beckham despite not seeing eye to eye with the England captain in recent weeks. He added: "I've known David since he was 11 years of age, and it's been a pleasure to see him grow and develop into the player he has become.

"David has been an integral part of all the successes that Manchester United have achieved in the last decade. I would like to wish him and his family every success in the future, and thank him for his service to the club."

Beckham will now join Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, Roberto Carlos, Raul and Figo at a club which believes in its divine right to be the biggest, and best club side in the world.

Beckham and his wife, former Spice Girl Victoria are currently in Japan to shoot commercials before heading to Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand as part of sponsor arranged tour.

The midfield star will be unveiled in front of the Spanish public at Madrid's Bernabeau Stadium on July 2.

(MB)