[Warchant]

MILAN, Italy (AP) - AC Milan plans to meet with David Beckham's agents to see if the former England captain can get out of his contract with the Los Angeles Galaxy and stay with the Serie A club.

"If Beckham reaches an agreement with the Galaxy, we are prepared to pay a fee," Milan vice president Adriano Galliani said Tuesday. "We will meet with his representatives in the next few days."

Beckham is on a two-month loan from the Galaxy and is due to return to Major League Soccer on March 9.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid player scored his first goal for Milan in Sunday's 4-1 victory over Bologna.

"If he decides to free himself and wants to (stay), we will welcome him with open arms, but he belongs to another club and we've got to thank them because they were very kind with us," Galliani said, according to the Gazzetta dello Sport Web site.

"On March 9, his contract (with Milan) is up and we don't want to slight anyone. (Beckham) wants to stay with us, but he also knows that he has to go back to America."

Beckham has started all three of Milan's matches since he arrived, and the Rossoneri have beaten AS Roma, Fiorentina and Bologna.

England coach Fabio Capello will attend Milan's match against Genoa on Wednesday to assess Beckham's form.

"Barring any unforeseen changes in his schedule, he will be at the San Siro," Capello's son and manager, Pierfilippo, told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Beckham is hoping to be called up by Capello for a friendly against Spain on Feb. 11 and equal Bobby Moore's record of 108 England appearances for an outfield player.

"Beckham wrote me a message after the Bologna game," Capello's assistant, Franco Baldini, told the Gazzetta. "He was happy about the goal and I told him he's got to continue this way."

Beckham's ultimate goal is to make England's team for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

[Warchant]

i'm actually more concerned with what this will do to MLS's image than Milan.

it will either do nothing or the world will think of us as even more of a joke.

personally, i think it can help us move past the beckham era and force teams to buy good players that will actually do something for the team rather than cause a circus.

[Tennie]

(Not if any club lets Alexi Lalas be their managing director, Warchant. He's to thank for the circus at LA.)

I still am not particularly happy that this player is at Milan - not changing my stance there - but even I will admit that he's got a strong work ethic and that he REALLY wants to represent his country, both of which are laudable things. I also think he's been far, far better playing for Milan than he ever was in LA.

(If the scary wife and personality cult would just...stay far away, I don't think I'd have that much of a problem with him).

[pacang]

all this after a single goal? which Seedorf most probably can score on his own?

wow, that was quick..

[kurtsimonw]

Very disappointed. He is here for 3 months and we should respect that, not good enough.

[acid911]

"On March 9, his contract (with Milan) is up and we don't want to slight anyone".

On March 5, my contract (with Rapidshare.com) is up too! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) Will probably have to get a new account or extend it. Boy, I love my Rapidshare Premium account, and surely I can't live without it.

all this after a single goal? which Seedorf most probably can score on his own?
wow, that was quick..

Welcome to AC Milan. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Hope you enjoy your stay.

[acid911]

Very disappointed. He is here for 3 months and we should respect that, not good enough.

Come to think of it, my account with Rapidshare was also for 3 months. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) I'll probably respect that more than Milan in this case.

[Habitant]

i have nothing against him, he just doesnt belong here.

[Tennie]

Fishdoll is going to demand another jersey if #32 stays. Maybe Marchisio (a young ITALIAN who's being given time and who is doing well, ahem).

[MizNelson]

I also think he's been far, far better playing for Milan than he ever was in LA.

*enters old fart mode*

Beckham wasn't even the best player on the Galaxy, who stunk even after his arrival by finishing below .500 (not counting draws) and missing the playoffs.

If he was serious about playing competitive football in the U.S., which he wasn't, he'd have shopped himself to other teams besides L.A. Instead, he and the wife seemed more interested in rubbing elbows with celebrities.

[I_Rossoneri]

Becks' Milan D-day approaches

There are reports in the English Press that David Beckham has just six days to decide whether he wants to stay with Milan.

The England international is on loan from LA Galaxy and is due to return to the MLS outfit on March 8.

However, Beckham has settled in quickly at Milan and it has been reported that the midfielder is keen to stay on longer at San Siro.

Milan Vice-President Adriano Galliani has admitted his desire to sign Beckham on a permanent basis and the ball is in Beckham's court.

According to reports in The Sun, Beckham has just six days to make his final decision because he cannot extend his loan deal and must compete a permanent move before the transfer window closes.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/jan28a.html
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Can't see galliani sealing this deal in just 6 days.

[Jack Sparrow]

Not gonna happen this season I don't think. We'll have to see though. If he comes in, we're definitely losing Gourcuff. Even if Emo goes!

[I_Rossoneri]

According to Sky sports Becks is unsure whether to stay at Galaxy or sign for Milan.

Edit: They're now saying he's tempted but has a big decision to make.

This post has been edited by I_Rossoneri: Jan 28 2009, 01:34 PM

[Jack Sparrow]

I know. Soccernet has also got an article saying we can purchase him for 4.5 million next summer, if LA don't play ball now.

Seems his 'wages' was all sponsorship deals, which adidas would be glad to continue paying to have him pose next to Kaka. Milan will do what they did with R80. Complete ownership of image rights.

[I_Rossoneri]

I know. Soccernet has also got an article saying we can purchase him for 4.5 million next summer, if LA don't play ball now.

Seems his 'wages' was all sponsorship deals, which adidas would be glad to continue paying to have him pose next to Kaka. Milan will do what they did with R80. Complete ownership of image rights.

I think that Becks will force a move but the main problem is that his family are settling in America. The next few days will be very interesting.

[Jack Sparrow]

I'd rather he didn't come this season, it would just create such a ruckus of dishonesty and Milan arm-twisting. But at the same time if Emerson is going out, then we need him in the squad so... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

[I_Rossoneri]

I'd rather he didn't come this season, it would just create such a ruckus of dishonesty and Milan arm-twisting. But at the same time if Emerson is going out, then we need him in the squad so... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

Thing is the only person I have heard complain so far is Arena, I can't remember hearing Galaxy issuing any condemnation of Milan. Galliani has also said we will only go for Becks if Becks wants it and Galaxy are happy with it so can't really see any problems.

[kurtsimonw]

If it were to most other teams, I don't think Mrs. Beckham would have been fond of a permanent move away from LA, but since the destination will be Milan, I'm sure even she probably won't mind!

I would love Beckham in Milan permanently.. then it wouldn't feel such a waste getting the shirt with his name on it!

[Rivaldo]

At the end of the season....not longer...or we loose Flamini

[Bluesummers]

beckham has been playing well for us. I wouldn't mind him staying with us. The way he played showd he can last for another 2-3 years.

But at what cost are we keeping him? Flamini gourcuff emerson?


Hard decision.

[acid911]

But at what cost are we keeping him? Flamini gourcuff emerson?

The bolded ones. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) Probably.

[Fillipo Simone]

beckham has been playing well for us. I wouldn't mind him staying with us. The way he played showd he can last for another 2-3 years.

But at what cost are we keeping him? Flamini gourcuff emerson?


Hard decision.

If one midfielder means the elimination of 3 others then I have to conclude that neither of the 3 named is as complete as Beckham.

But I don't agree we have to push out anyone. Only if Flamini insists on playing first team. And that he just does not deserve in this moment.

[dst]

But at the same time if Emerson is going out, then we need him in the squad so... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

Emerson has been negative in every single game he's played you cannot seriously be considering him as someone we will miss. It was even proved against Lazio in the Cup that a 10-man Milan without him is better than a Milan XI with him in.

[nuh]

i want him to come to milan he is very good and he has a big heart so i hope he stays here
he has the passing of prilo no better then pirlo and he has the heart of gattuso

This post has been edited by nuh: Jan 29 2009, 10:57 AM

[elcordobez]

Well i think Becks missus has always had a significant pull on his career so she might be calling the shots on this one,from a footballing perspective there's no reason to go back
i mean c'mon going back to stuff like this

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=XqTqyc-YBC0&...feature=related
and this
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc09yuc07YI
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=B_9UQXvrCHw

I've seen dirty play before but that stuff is really something else.

This post has been edited by elcordobez: Jan 29 2009, 11:28 AM

[Warchant]

you've got to realize that most of these players probably don't want Beckham in their league.

I'm not trying to justify their actions, but a lot of these MLS players have earned their spot on their teams because of hard work. And then this guy comes in an automatically takes all the fame and attention away from every other player and puts it on himself.

plus, this is their shot to show him that he's not going to just walk into the MLS and get treated like a king.

most of it, i think, is bitterness.

[kurtsimonw]

you've got to realize that most of these players probably don't want Beckham in their league.

That's no problem then, because they're not even close to being in Beckhams league. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

[I_Rossoneri]

No need to bid for Becks

The Italian Football Association has confirmed to Sky Sports News that AC Milan would not have to bid for David Beckham before the transfer window closes at 5pm on Monday.

They also confirmed Beckham is registered with them until a loan agreement with AC Milan expires on June 30th.

However a separate agreement is still in place, between all parties, which says Beckham will return to LA Galaxy on March the 9th.

Beckham has been with Milan since the turn of the year, scoring twice in four appearances for the Rossoneri.

His future has become the subject of much conjecture of late, with Milan seeking to keep him in Italy and LA Galaxy keen to see him return to the United States.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11863_4871730,00.html
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Looks like we have longer than 4 days then! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

[Bluesummers]

No need to bid for Becks

The Italian Football Association has confirmed to Sky Sports News that AC Milan would not have to bid for David Beckham before the transfer window closes at 5pm on Monday.

They also confirmed Beckham is registered with them until a loan agreement with AC Milan expires on June 30th.

However a separate agreement is still in place, between all parties, which says Beckham will return to LA Galaxy on March the 9th.

Beckham has been with Milan since the turn of the year, scoring twice in four appearances for the Rossoneri.

His future has become the subject of much conjecture of late, with Milan seeking to keep him in Italy and LA Galaxy keen to see him return to the United States.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11863_4871730,00.html
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Looks like we have longer than 4 days then! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

Thats like sex on a beach. Great news IRo

[Rivaldo]

Emerson has been negative in every single game he's played you cannot seriously be considering him as someone we will miss.

He was the best when came from the bench Milan-Sampdoria (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/innocent.gif)

[Jack Sparrow]

+ With Rino out, and if Beckham were to go, it would mean we have only Flamini, Pirlo and Ambro are mid-fielders, coz I don't think Cardaccio will play much of a role.

[acid911]

He was the best when came from the bench Milan-Sampdoria

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Maybe Emerson had something personal against Sampdoria?! Hehe.

+ With Rino out, and if Beckham were to go, it would mean we have only Flamini, Pirlo and Ambro are mid-fielders, coz I don't think Cardaccio will play much of a role.

A Frenchman by the name that starts with G. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sleep.gif) Sure would have come in handy! I can only pray we don't get any more injuries. Not even one. Not even half.

[Jack Sparrow]

Well the French kid wouldn't come this season so... Next season if Emo wants to leave we can cope, coz Rino will be back as well.

[Tennie]

The transfer window for Beckham is a little weird. It's not the same deadline as it would be if LA were playing in Europe. The rule for transfer windows has to do with transfer windows in the league of the loaning club (in this case, LA), not the club where the player is being loaned to (in this case, Milan).

I am happy to admit that I was wrong about this particular transfer. Beckham has played well and has shown a lot of commitment to helping the team since he's been at Milan.

[kurtsimonw]

£14m is being mentioned on the back of some papers. Now I like Beckham alot and he's played very well since he's joined, but if we spend £14m on him, somebody needs shooting.

[dst]

The transfer window for Beckham is a little weird. It's not the same deadline as it would be if LA were playing in Europe. The rule for transfer windows has to do with transfer windows in the league of the loaning club (in this case, LA), not the club where the player is being loaned to (in this case, Milan).

I think a Lega Calcio official said the loan deal for Beckham expires in June, as is normal. That's why there's this agreement between the two clubs to release the player earlier.

£14m is being mentioned on the back of some papers. Now I like Beckham alot and he's played very well since he's joined, but if we spend £14m on him, somebody needs shooting.

I don't know... it's quite a lot... but I don't think it's too much. Probably E10m should be the limit though.

[Jack Sparrow]

10 million? Yeah..well I suppose. As long as it's only 10 million...and not another 5 in pay outs. Give him image rights if you like.

[elcordobez]

Does anyone know his current wage bill with LA ? I've read different numbers from all over the place.

[Jack Sparrow]

It's not a lot. About 6 million USD. I mean it is a lot, but compared to Kaka's bill, not much. The larger figures are sponsorship deals with adidas etc, which Milan will let him have.

[CrazyMilanFan]

yea but beckham sponsor deal woul dhave earned him more than 100 million mark till his contract ends till 2011 i think

[I_Rossoneri]

yea but beckham sponsor deal woul dhave earned him more than 100 million mark till his contract ends till 2011 i think

IIRC Becks contract was worth £128m over five years(This included his image rights).

I think a Lega Calcio official said the loan deal for Beckham expires in June, as is normal. That's why there's this agreement between the two clubs to release the player earlier.

You are correct, the reason we have time is because the loan deal ends in june but there was a gentlemans agreement between the clubs that Becks would return in march.

I don't know... it's quite a lot... but I don't think it's too much. Probably E10m should be the limit though.

I think £10m is probably about right, but to soften the deal we will have to pay a bit more. If Becks can continue this form then it's money well spent, plus he will sell shirts so we can recoup some of that back.

[Warchant]

If LA were smart they would sale him and go out and buy players that would actually make the team better.

[I_Rossoneri]

If LA were smart they would sale him and go out and buy players that would actually make the team better.

Personally I think they're trying to prove a point.

[Ro Rossonera]

but if we spend £14m on him, somebody needs shooting.

Oooo I want that job! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) lol jk

[Fillipo Simone]

Mediaset's saying Milan could sell Gourcuff in order to get Becks.

Now I'm all ear...

(IMG:http://twi-ny.com/waltermirisch.jpg)

[acid911]

Mediaset's saying Milan could sell Gourcuff in order to get Becks.

Huh. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

[Jack Sparrow]

Mediaset is just drawing up all the options Milan have. Actually I think with Beckham in, it gives a real chance for Gourcuff in the side. Something like...

--------Emerson------
--Andy P----Spice Boy--
-------Kuffkuff----------
----------------Kaka (as SS)
-------Pato/Borriello-------


For the days when Zee is not fully fit, yet still has to play coz R80 can't defend for shite. Has anyone seen Kuffkuff play for Bordeaux. I don't mean just the highlights package. Has his defending play improved?

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) Selling Kuffkuff to buy Beckham doesn't make sense. Beckham would pay for his own transfer fee in a year and a half, less if he performs like he has been (which is very very doubtful..sooner or later the Milan mentality sinks in (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif) )

@Filippo: Peter Sellers??!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) Birdie Num Nums! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[Rivaldo]

Mediaset's saying Milan could sell Gourcuff in order to get Becks.

It's possimle only in Milan - sell 22 years old player to buy 33 years old....

Omg...

[Tennie]

Well, Bordeaux has already stated that they're probably going to exercise the 15 million clause in the Gourcuff loan and buy him anyway so the likelihood of Gourcuff returning wasn't all that great to begin with. The deal with Bordeaux requires them to pay the 15 million by the end of April.

The Mediaset story says that Barca have asked about Gourcuff and that if Bordeaux decides not to pay up, they could sell Gourcuff to Barca instead.

[dst]

Jack... for ****s sake... you included Emerson in that line-up. Quit that will ya?

[Jack Sparrow]

That line-up needed awesomeness. Who was gonna give that? Flamini? Or a one-legged Rino? Or maybe Ambro, nice uptight Ambro?!!

One Emo to rule them all, one Emo to find them, one Emo to bring them all and at the San Siro bind them! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/devil.gif)

[Il Capitano]

Becks good and all but noway is he worth 15-20 mill as the reports are suggesting. If he wanna stay he better pay half of it.

[Fillipo Simone]

--------Emerson------
--Andy P----Spice Boy--
-------Kuffkuff----------
----------------Kaka (as SS)
-------Pato/Borriello-------


@Filippo: Peter Sellers??!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif) Birdie Num Nums! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

It was only logical to put Emo in, who else could be blamed for a bad match in such line up?
Oh...wait...Ancelotti is still coach in your vision Capt'n, right?

@Mr. Sellers is a legend! Love that man!

[Don-Chan]

Becks good and all but noway is he worth 15-20 mill as the reports are suggesting. If he wanna stay he better pay half of it.

I agree... there's no reason for milan to pay that much on him although he's already showing his ability to the team.
I doesn't mean that we dont need him but beckham himself also need Milan than LA Galaxy if he wanted to play at the highest level of football automatically will rise his chance to play for his country..

[Ro Rossonera]

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player...tid=10131268001

have you guys seen that? sorry if it's not the right place to post it but I'm still learning.

I'm afraid this interview by him will only drive the brass into overdrive on keeping him.

[Tennie]

Is that the 'I want to stay at Milan' interview? Just noticed that it's splashed all over the Italian media.

[Ro Rossonera]

yup, I'm absolutely devastated. I know he's done well for us...but why do we need another 30+ player...when we have so much young talent that we give to other teams?

[Jack Sparrow]

Well Ro, coz I think next season Milan will be desperate, really desperate to chase that CL. It's become a prestige issue. And Becks being here is important, because I think we're 'actually' going to compete on two fronts. There's a lot more movement happening in the primavera than in previous seasons as well, so a few might be getting counted upon to make a jump.

Beckham has been great for us. I'm really being impressed with his link up with Pirlo. In fact there was a pretty good article on goal.com. Besides the quality of the writing it had a few good points.

A brilliant David Beckham dragged Milan back into Scudetto contention during the 3-0 win at Lazio, while Juventus’ and Ricardo Quaresma’s problems continued. Carlo Garganese analyses the weekend’s Serie A action…


These are not necessarily my thoughts, but when Fabio Caressa, the famous Italian football commentating expert, describes David Beckham as “one of the best midfielders in world football currently”, you sit up and take notice.

There can be few who predicted Beckham to have such a stunning impact on Serie A. Even Adriano Galliani, who loves to grinningly boast about how he “told everyone so, and they didn’t want to listen”, surely did not dream up a better beginning.

Beckham’s performance against Lazio last night was nothing short of sensational. It was world class. ‘Golden Balls’ provided the assists for the first two goals of Pato and Massimo Ambrosini, he created another disallowed Pato effort, while he also put Kaka clean through on goal when the Brazilian hit the post.

Beckham has never been a classical playmaker during his career, but last night he was exactly that. The 33-year-old did not relinquish the ball all evening long, and his short, long and, in particular, his mid-range passing was out of this world. Everything he touched turned to ‘gold’. His confidence shone through when he attempted the old Beckham-Scholes corner routine with Andrea Pirlo, a player he is forging a fine understanding with in midfield.

I must confess that I was initially puzzled as to just how Beckham could fit into this Milan line-up, but the balance he has helped bring, not only to the midfield but the team as a whole, has seen the Rossoneri flourish. Pirlo is now back to his best again, there is width down the right, and Beckham has also, somewhat surprisingly, established tactical and defensive stability. Milan should be doing everything in their power to ensure the ex-Real Madrid man makes his loan move permanent, while England and Fabio Capello should be exerting their influence too because this is a re-born Beckham.

Milan are undoubtedly the form team in Italy at the moment, and if they continue as they are, they will surely challenge for the Scudetto, even if they do still trail leaders Inter by six points.

The Nerazzurri are not playing at all well in 2009, and this was confirmed yesterday afternoon when they had to come from behind just to earn a 1-1 home draw against struggling Torino. The team is really missing a touch of fantasy and creativity in midfield, and Jose Mourinho seems to have as good as given up on his two big summer signings – Amantino Mancini and Ricardo Quaresma – who were supposed to bring the squad exactly that.

Quaresma, who is surely up there with the worst transfer flops of all time, has even been left off the Champions League squad list, fuelling rumours that he will join Tottenham Hotspur on-loan today, in a strange swap deal involving the rather ‘ordinary’ Jermaine Jenas.

Juventus, meanwhile, are in a mini-crisis, and have dropped down to third after a shocking 3-2 home defeat against Cagliari. Like Inter, the Bianconeri are in desperate need of a midfield playmaker. Every man and his dog cried out for Alessio Secco to sign one last summer but, instead, the much-maligned director opted for Christian Poulsen who, so far, has also been a resounding failure.

The Juventus defence is starting to look increasingly vulnerable when up against pacy forward lines. Last Wednesday, Antonio Di Natale and Fabio Quagliarella caused all kinds of problems as Udinese won 2-1 at the Stadio Friuli, while on Saturday evening it was Cagliari’s Jeda and Alessandro Matri who did the damage. With Giorgio Chiellini ruled out for a month, and possibly missing the big Champions League tie against Chelsea, most Juve fans will have more than a few reasons to worry.

A special mention must go out to Cagliari though, who have won four on the trot in Serie A to move up to seventh in the table, just six points off a Champions League place. The islanders have put a combined seven past Juventus and Lazio away, while they started 2009 with a 1-1 draw at Inter, a game they should have won. This is a side who lost their first five games of the season, something that makes their current standing even more miraculous. Brazilian forward Jeda is possibly the most in-form player in Italy at present.

Genoa tightened their grip on fourth place with a late win over Palermo, while Roma and Napoli faltered as they drew 2-2 against Reggina and Udinese respectively. Fiorentina, whose match at Bologna was postponed yesterday due to snow, will try again this afternoon to close to within two points of the final Champions League slot.

With the transfer deadline closing on Monday at 1900 CET, it remains to be seen what last minute deals will be conjured up. One thing is for sure though, and that is David Beckham has been the signing of the January transfer window so far…

I have to agree. We all talked about how important it was that the stress be taken off Kaka, and so R80 and Pato have done that to an extent. But we seem to forget how important it is to free Pirlo up a little bit. Pirlo's been Milan's heart beat for some time now, and to shackle Pirlo would automatically put pressure on Kaka. Now Becks being there really frees things up.

Also liked seeing Flamini play in the centre. I don't think it's too much of a sacrifice to have him play there. It was too much to expect him to take on Rino's role in the right, even though he's Flattusso (sounds like flatulence don't it? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) ). But if Flamini plays in the centre, I'm not sure if we can deal with wingers as effectively. But that's another discussion.

I think Becks can give us another 2-3 years. So 10 million seems fair. Especially with the bonuses he'll bring.

But we must realise that he's due for a dip in form. Within 2 months of him becoming a staple in our side, they'll have counter tactics. To which we will have the awesomness of R80. Doesn't it feel good to have real options in our side. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) It's been 3 long years.

[Ro Rossonera]

It has been 3 long years...and I guess you're right.

I just hate the fact that I look up Milan news and it's Beckham this and Beckham that...I feel like to much attention is being focused on him, when there are another 10 guys out there with him. I don't like the media frenzy, they are a team and no one person is bigger than the team, not even David Beckham. Although I almost fell out of my seat when I opened the magazine 'People' and saw Pato and Beckham staring back at me...Beckham I wasn't so surprised Pato I was.

This post has been edited by Ro Rossonera: Feb 5 2009, 06:58 AM

[dst]

It was too much to expect him to take on Rino's role in the right, even though he's Flattusso (sounds like flatulence don't it? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) ). But if Flamini plays in the centre, I'm not sure if we can deal with wingers as effectively. But that's another discussion.

Rino's role in the right?!? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) Rino does not play on the right wing... only on paper, in reality, he's every place there's a player to be tackled.

Anyway, Pirlo has been crying for some freedom two years now. It took Ancelotti way too much to figure out how he'd do that (and I don't think Beckham was his own choice anyway) but there's no point discussing that now...

Gattuso / Ambro / Flamini should play in the center with Pirlo on the left and Becks on the right.

[Jack Sparrow]

Didn't mean right wing. But Rino starts out on the right, and then roams around everywhere. His forward runs are from the right...etc.

Ancelotti though adding a player like Emerson and/or Flamini would free Pirlo up. Turns out what we needed for Pirlo was not more protection like Carlo thought, not more passing options like I thought, but a partner-in-crime which was what Becks turned out to be.

This post has been edited by Jack Sparrow: Feb 5 2009, 01:07 PM

[dst]

I don't think he does more things on the right than in the center and left but anyway.

Flamini and Emerson are strictly defensive midfielders. The latter used to be more than that a long time ago but I don't think Carletto tried to change anything by introducing them. He was just waiting for Pirlo's resurrection. Lippi has already shown the way, just let the man play a bit less deep and he becomes the player we all know and love. But Carletto is too stubborn to do anything like that.

Becks draws defenders on him and that gives more time to Pirlo and he also is not immobile like your friend Seedorf which means means more options for Andrea.

[Jack Sparrow]

Seedorf is not my friend... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

He's my brother. We were seperated from each other when we were children. It was a heavy crowd there to watch Mohun Bagan vs. East Bengal. We lost each other and next I heard of him was years later when he'd won the CL with Ajax. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cry.gif)

[acid911]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) So that explains the weird hairdo he had some years back. A pirate style, huh?!

[armiss]

Platini: Beckham loan was wrong Thursday 5 February, 2009

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

UEFA President Michel Platini has criticised Milan for taking David Beckham on loan for three months and heaped praise on Fabio Capello.

The Rossoneri are trying to make the England international's switch from Los Angeles Galaxy permanent, but they are set to lose him on March 9.

Beckham initially arrived on a three-month loan - an agreement that Platini doesn't believe should have taken place.

“My problem isn't with Beckham but with Milan for signing a player for three months,” the ex-Juventus man said.

“If they have done that then why not sign a player for a game? A team could maybe sign five players for a Final. It's a situation that we have to look into.”

Platini was in London to support the bids of European nations to host World Cup 2018.

Germany hosted football's showpiece event in 2006 and FIFA's rotation system sees the tournament played in South Africa next year and Brazil in 2014.

“My job will be to convince FIFA that the 2018 World Cup should be in Europe because we have to return here every 12 years,” Platini explained.

Four European groups are preparing bids for the 2018 event - England, Russia, Spain/Portugal and Holland/Belgium.

Platini concluded by discussing the possibility of an English World Cup win under Italian Coach Fabio Capello.

“Whenever Fabio goes somewhere it certainly isn't in order to lose,” he said.

“He has won wherever he has gone and he is capable of a lot. England have good players and Capello knows the situation very well.

“Fabio has been a great success so far and with the players he has at his disposal it's not illogical to predict something good at the next World Cup.”














Hey Michel you can SHUT THAT very politely, do something for those Sheikhes pockets

[Fillipo Simone]

Is it me or is that statement Platini gave...idiotic?

Doesn't he have bigger things to concern?

[acid911]

Is it me or is every statement Platini gives...idiotic?

Corrected. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

Doesn't he have bigger things to concern?

He's always against Italian clubs, and all that. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif) I am yet to hear genuine good come from his mouth in favor of countries he's biased against. For him, football is either England or those Arab Sheikhs.

[Tennie]

Oddly enough, many English fans I know seem to consider him pro-Serie A. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[dst]

“If they have done that then why not sign a player for a game? A team could maybe sign five players for a Final. It's a situation that we have to look into.”

If it's legal then what's the problem about it?
Also, you can't sign a player before a final because there is no transfer window open in May... I thought he'd know that...

Is it me or is that statement Platini gave...idiotic?

Doesn't he have bigger things to concern?

He and his friend Blatter had better focus on the upcoming World Cup... let's see where that will take place.

[Fillipo Simone]

...or the next Euro as well...

[Warchant]

what an absolute idiot

seriously...how is this man in charge of anything?

[Zed.D]

I agree not with his idiotic comment about signing a few players for a final, but with his sentiments as a whole. Beckham has been good so far, but I still feel kinda sick when I think we signed him for just 3 months. maybe it's just me...

[Ro Rossonera]

maybe it's just me...

Definitely not just you...although I would prefer that we hadn't signed him at all, but that's just me. I would have preferred someone younger and Italian, but maybe I'm just being too picky?

[Tennie]

Careful, Ro. They'll accuse you of bias for wanting to see Italians playing for an Italian team. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[mishie]

Careful, Ro. They'll accuse you of bias for wanting to see Italians playing for an Italian team. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

god forbid that idea becomes the norm! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

[Ro Rossonera]

Lol...I officially retract that statement then. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[I_Rossoneri]

Galaxy want more for Becks

LA Galaxy have told AC Milan they must up their current offer if they want to prolong David Beckham's time in Italy.

The England international has made no secret of his desire to remain at the Serie A giants past the end of his current loan deal

The experienced midfielder has even suggested that he would be willing to cut short his contract in America and finish his career back in Europe.

Milan are yet to reach an agreement with the Galaxy which will allow that desire to be fulfilled, with the MLS outfit unwilling to do business with the current terms on the table.

"They must improve their offer if they wish to keep Beckham past the 9th March," Galaxy chief executive Tim Leiweke told the Los Angeles Times.

"We want to bring David back to California but should he wish to end the season in Italy, Milan would need to award our club in a way that would not damage our team or supporters.

"Everyone must be happy with the deal."

Milan are expected to reopen talks in the next few days, with Beckham confirming that he would be willing to take a pay cut in order to remain with the Rossoneri.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_4903406,00.html
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

According to the sun we have offered $5.7m while Galaxy value Becks at nearer $20m, the thing is that Becks is a free agent in november hence why Milan won't bid too high. The sun seem to think an offer of around $10m would be enough to sign Becks (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)

It's also widely reported that Posh and their three kids, Becks parents and her parents will all be at the San Siro to watch him tonight.

[PatitoFeo]

Yeah 10 million should do the trick. MLS needs to be smart and sell him on good terms, so in 3-4 years it can re-sign him. He really did help attendance, help sell t-shirts, and help sell TV deals. All those thing will be possible again in 4 years.

Plus 10million is a fair price for a 33 year old in a down economy.

http://blog.futfanatico.com/2009/01/24/sta...n--serie-a.aspx

[kurtsimonw]

I think $5.7m is insulting to be honest, I'm disappointed that we even offered that. They did us a favour by loaning him to us, then we talk of trying to keep him and make disrespecftul offers like that? Come on, this is Milan.

[Fillipo Simone]

10 would be more then enough. This time I support our managements stingy policy cause it is stupid to invest big money in a player that old. I know everyone (me included) says now Beckham is great and we need him, but there won't pass much time and he'll be moved to the "must retire" column. That said...we shouldn't spend much on him.

[I_Rossoneri]

Sky sports reporting that Galaxy has refused a £6.7m($10m I think) bid for Becks from Milan.

[I_Rossoneri]

Deadline set for Becks move

AC Milan have been told they must agree a deal by Friday if they want to sign David Beckham from Los Angeles Galaxy.

Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber, who would have to approve any switch, imposed the deadline on Wednesday evening.

Garber told reporters on a conference call that he wants an agreement in place by the end of the week if the proposed transfer is to go ahead.

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

"This Friday we need to know if they want to buy David Beckham or not."

Beckham joined Milan on loan at the beginning of January, saying he wanted to keep up his match fitness to remain in the England squad.

The deal is due to expire on 8th March, but Beckham and Milan have made clear that they now want to make the switch permanent.
Plans

Garber, however, insisted MLS would not be made to wait as the start of the American season nears.

"What they need to realise is that we are getting very close to the start of our season," he said. "We have to figure out what plans we need to make and if David Beckham is going to be a part of those plans."

The Galaxy's season begins against DC United on 22nd March.

Beckham, who signed a five-year contract with the Galaxy in January 2007, has impressed during his month in Italy, scoring twice and earning a place in the Rossoneri's UEFA Cup squad.

He announced last week after a friendly in Glasgow that he wanted to make the move permanent.

Milan have already floated one offer for Beckham, but the club's owners, AEG, said the offer did not meet their valuation.

Garber said today that no formal offer had been made, although he did confirm that Beckham has a get-out clause in his contract that he can exercise after the 2009 season.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_4914406,00.html
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

So we should hopefully know on friday. I think it will go on longer.

[Zed.D]

Good news that we're going to know what will happen very soon.

[kurtsimonw]

Can't see anything happening by Friday.

[Warchant]

AC Milan and David Beckham presented their case to MLS commissioner Don Garber and the L.A. Galaxy regarding a permanent move for the England midfielder to the Rossoneri during an exclusive phone interview with Fox Sports.

The deadline for any possible deal to make Beckham's highly-publicized loan permanent must be clearly defined by Friday's 3 p.m. ET deadline.

Garber was adamant about not wanting the negotiations to drag on as the 2009 MLS season begins in a few short months and, according to the commissioner, "The league must move on."

Despite the talks, no clear decisions were made by all the parties involved.

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani was present for the interview and offered, "We have made various offers and given the Galaxy many options. I don't know what else we can offer them or how much further in-depth we can get into these discussions."

Money appears to be the least of the problems, with L.A. basically requesting a star trade in order to give up their marquee player, most likely in the form of Brazilian star Ronaldinho.

But the former FIFA World Player of the Year made it clear that he did not want to be a part of the deal as any move to MLS would certainly signify a threat to his national team career.

That being said, a few possible trade names were on the table, offered up by AC Milan in exchange for Beckham's services. In the mix are Brazilian midfielder Emerson, Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf, Georgian defender Kakha Kaladze and Czech defender Marek Jankulovski.

It was not clear if the deal might possibly involve a single player, or a possible combination of any of those players.

The financial details were also unclear, with the rumored amount somewhere in the $50-100 million dollar range.

Beckham himself also added: "I know they've declined the initial offer. I don't know what will happen. I said it once and I'll say it again. I want to stay in Milan. I am comfortable here and would like to continue my career in Italy.

"I have absolutely nothing against the Galaxy or MLS. I love the league and have absolutley nothing against them. I just want to continue my career here [in Italy].

[Jack Sparrow]

Jankulovksi? Seedorf? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) Maybe first option...but nothing else.

[pandan_wangi]

waht teh.....

pity who's will be traded...

[Rossoneri7]

hmm ... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

[Habitant]

it's official, beckham is going back to LA

[Jack Sparrow]

Great..there goes his motivation.. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) See him in November then..

[Habitant]

CARSON, Calif. - David Beckham is coming back to the Los Angeles Galaxy.

The English midfielder will return to the MLS team next month as scheduled after his loan agreement with AC Milan ends.

Tim Leiweke, president of Galaxy parent AEG, said Friday the Italian club didn't make a second offer to the Galaxy to keep Beckham so the team will adhere to MLS commissioner Don Garber's Friday deadline to resolve the situation.

The Galaxy had already rejected Milan's first offer.

''We didn't receive an offer today,'' Leiweke told The Associated Press by phone from Colorado. ''We will abide by the commissioner's wishes, so we are clear at this point that we don't want to have any further conversations.''

Leiweke said he had not spoken directly to Beckham, but that he informed the player's representatives the loan would not be made permanent. Beckham's five-year Galaxy contract is owned by MLS, and he is due in the team's training camp on March 9.

''I know David is emotionally invested, but I don't think Milan really was that interested in spending the money we would have had to receive to compensate us for our losses,'' Leiweke said.

He confirmed that Beckham has a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave at the end of this year.

''Clearly the risk is we may lose him at the end of the year,'' Leiweke said. ''Our hope is the team surprises him and we're a lot better than last year.''

Beckham arrived amid much hoopla in July 2007, but the Galaxy finished with a 9-14-7 record that was third worst in the league. Los Angeles also missed the playoffs last season.

Leiweke said he had discussions with Milan officials earlier in the week, but heard nothing from them Friday.

Garber said this week he wanted Beckham's future resolved by Friday or he would not approve any transfer between the two teams.

''The negotiations are over and we move on,'' Leiweke said. ''We look forward to seeing David back in camp. We need to have a good season and we need to live up to a higher expectation.''

The Galaxy opens the MLS season on March 21.

[Tennie]

Gosh. I was sure it was all a big publicity stunt that'd be resolved in Milan's favor. Huh.

Well, perhaps now Milan will spend the 10-15 million people thought they'd spend on Beckham on a really good young centerback. We're going to need one; Nesta pulled up in training with pain in his lower back. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[Jack Sparrow]

Well considering all the rumours that have floated around about the figures Galaxy wanted, I think we did the right thing. We did what would be considered par for the European transfer market (Old player, soon to be available on a free). Unfortunately, Galaxy don't seem as bright as their name would suggest. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

The only thing to worry is if in November, suddenly other teams start competing with us for Beckham, after seeing how well he's done.

[elcordobez]

Yeh 6 months of Beckham is not worth 15million.

He'll be playing regularly @ la so he'll probably be included in the national team.

[kurtsimonw]

Mistake, in my opinion.

Even if I were a businessman, disregarding the football side of things, £15m would be a good buy. Yes he's getting on a bit now.. but £15m is nothing in comparison to the money the club will make for having Beckham. He's a money making machine, so unless we're going to spend £100m on him, then we can't lose on him.

[MizNelson]

Becks is playing well now, but for once Milan looked at the big picture and realized that ponying up a good amount of coin for another thirtysomething (soon to be 34) was probably not a smart idea. There was no guarantee he'd have fit into our long-term plans.

Nesta pulled up in training with pain in his lower back.

God...

[Tennie]

I find LA's part in this mystifying. Is it just me or are they damaging their reputation and that of the league by playing hardball in this way and badmouthing Milan in the process? It's surely not going to endear them to Beckham and I wonder if other potential designated players (ie, those outside the salary cap, usually players from Europe or South Amerca on the downside of their careers) are going to think twice about wanting to get involved.

That said, if they were demanding crazy money then...they shot themselves in the foot for that too.

[Warchant]

yea, this was a dumb move by LA. of course, i personally think they were bullied by the MLS to do all of this.

the MLS (and US Soccer) has a huge inferiority complex and doesn't want to have anything to do with looking like the little guy on the block. maybe you need those kind of people to build a nothing league into a contender. i don't know.

but i believe, in this case, the MLS wanted to keep Beckham for the face value. so people would keep watching MLS games. so he could still draw huge crowds to MLS games.

honestly, i don't believe any Euro team will pick him up in nov.. i believe he'll either resign with LA or move to a better MLS team that will actually win hardware.

he'll get called to the national team, England will stumble along as they usually do and beckham will lose his appeal. i believe he did well in milan because it's milan. players love the atmosphere. i don't think he'll have the same form, or be accepted the way he has here, anywhere else.

[pandan_wangi]

this is a bad news for becks...i just wish his perform won't drop in next milan games...

[I_Rossoneri]

I find LA's part in this mystifying. Is it just me or are they damaging their reputation and that of the league by playing hardball in this way and badmouthing Milan in the process? It's surely not going to endear them to Beckham and I wonder if other potential designated players (ie, those outside the salary cap, usually players from Europe or South Amerca on the downside of their careers) are going to think twice about wanting to get involved.

That said, if they were demanding crazy money then...they shot themselves in the foot for that too.

IMO you have hit the nail on the head (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)

This week all I have heard from Galaxy/MLS are demands while we have remained silent. While we have kept our dignity they shown themselves to be the desperate amateurs that they are (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

I still think Becks will come.