Beckham expects team-mate Owen to stay at Real

David Beckham believes England team-mate Michael Owen's place at Real Madrid is not in danger despite the club's determination to sign Brazil's Robinho.

The possible arrival of the 21-year-old Santos striker has cast doubt on Owen's future in Madrid but Beckham said the former Liverpool striker had nothing to fear.

"Michael is established in this team, with the manager and with the fans," Beckham told Reuters after this week's humbling 3-0 pre-season defeat by Japan's Tokyo Verdy.

"I'd like Michael to stay because one, he's a good friend and two, he's a great player."

But Beckham said he would welcome the arrival of Robinho, whose move to the Spanish club is being challenged by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

"He's a great player," said Beckham.

"From what Roberto Carlos and Ronaldo say, he's one of the best young players in the world.

"I haven't really been looking at what's been going on and whether he's coming or going - but if he comes, that's great."

Real said last week that they had paid 60 per cent, or $30 million, of the $50 million buy-out clause in Robinho's contract to buy Santos's share of his rights.

The player is anxious to join the nine-times European champions and has waived the remaining 40 per cent to which he is entitled.

But the CBF said a unilateral breach of contract would require Real to pay Santos the full $50 million for the young Brazil international.