Source: Daily_Mail
Frank Lampard wanted to replace David Beckham at LA Galaxy
LA Galaxy are lining up a shock move for Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard as the perfect choice to replace David Beckham.[LNB] It would need a considerable offer to prise Lampard, 33, from Stamford Bridge, especially since his sparkling form has silenced doubts over his future under new manager Andre Villas-Boas. [LNB]But Galaxy need to find someone closeto Beckham's profile if speculation about him leaving the Home Depot Center after next Sunday's sell-out MLS Cup final against Dynamo Houstonturns out to be well founded. [LNB] Stooping to conquer: Lampard nods home in a friendly international against Spain on Saturday[LNB] American dream: LA Galaxy have shown an interest in Frank Lampard[LNB] Beckham is undecided about whether to stay with Galaxy or take up one of the options available to him in England and Italy, while the offer to join Paris Saint-Germain, backed by Qatar's billions and led by director of football Leonardo, his former colleague at AC Milan, is proving difficult to resist. [LNB]He intends to explore every avenue before making his choice.[LNB] In spite of the popular belief that Beckham, 36, was committing professional suicide by quitting Real Madrid for the then little-known American club, his five years at Galaxy have been a success, for him personally and professionally, and especially for the club, whom he has put on the world football map. [LNB]Such has been his impact in Los Angeles that they would move heaven and earth to persuade him to sign another deal. [LNB] Delivered: Beckham is popular in the States[LNB]MLS commissioner Don Garber said: 'David has delivered for us on all aspects of our expectations, both on and off the field.[LNB] 'David had a terrific year this year. It would be hard to argue he wasn't one of the most important players on our fields. [LNB]'Off the field, he continues to be an important part of what drives some of the popularity of our league, both here and around the world.[LNB] 'He remains a very popular guy. His presence on the sports pages but also on the "people pages" continues to grow here in America, and we benefit from that. [LNB]'MLS wouldn't be what it is today if David didn't come to play in Major League Soccer. All of us appreciate everything that he has done.[LNB] Instant hit: Robbie Keane (left) has joined Beckham (centre) in LA[LNB]'Galaxy games on the road have our highest average attendance; with a few exceptions the LA Galaxy are our highest-rated team on television; LA Galaxy kit sales are among the highest and, without a doubt, there is more attention for David off the sports pages than any other MLS player.[LNB]'I travel outside of the United States on football-related business and people seem to ask about two things - when are the [New York] Cosmos coming into Major League Soccer and how is David Beckham doing? [LNB]'David, his personal manager, Simon Fuller, and Tim Leiweke of Galaxy owners AEG will go through a process after the Cup to try to determine what David's future is, but I certainly hope to have him back.' [LNB]If Galaxy cannot hold on to their big star, the next best option would be to recruit someone of Lampard's stature.[LNB] It is understood his name has been discussed.[LNB] However, given his engagement to TV presenter Christine Bleakley, moving his career 6,000 miles away could be problematic.[LNB] Plenty to lose: It will take a lot to prise Lampard from Chelsea[LNB]Although the former Footballer of the Year would consider he has a few seasons of top-level football left in him, at 33 he could relish a new challenge. [LNB]At the end of his contract Beckham could even buy an MLS club for a knockdown price of $10million (about ?6.25m), terms secured when he joined the Galaxy in 2007. [LNB]Unlike the Premier League, you win your place in the MLS by setting up a franchise and paying a 'licence fee' to the league. [LNB]The going rate is about $50m (about ?31.25m). [LNB] His playing contract in LA ends after a post-season tour to Australia and the Far East. [LNB]But he is keen to play for Great Britain in next year's London Olympics, while Galaxy also want to offer him a new deal. [LNB]Beckham, 36, has expressed an interest in becoming a club owner. New York is favourite to form the next MLS team with the Cosmos. [LNB] Redknapp tax charge: Spurs boss faces January trial for 'cheating public revenue'Lampard launches vehement defence of Terry as Chelsea team-mate says, 'he's not racist'Capello continues to stand by Terry despite naming Lampard skipper for Spain clashAll the latest Chelsea FC news, features and opinion[LNB] [LNB]
