Inter lead race for Beckham

Reports in England yesterday said that Real Madrid could be forced to offload David Beckham in the January transfer window and have already offered the player to Serie A leaders Inter.

The former England captain has been at the centre of constant speculation since the arrival of new coach Fabio Capello last summer.

Teams as far apart as Bolton Wanderers, Los Angeles Galaxy and Al Ittihad have all been touted as possible destinations for Beckham, but Inter now seem to be leading the race to land his signature.

The 31-year-old has reportedly been offered to Inter for a fee of just £4m, a deal that may prove too enticing for president Massimo Moratti.

Real signed Argentine Fernando Gago last week. His arrival has put Beckham's first-team place in further doubt as the midfielder demands guarantees over his role before signing a new contract.

His current deal expires in June and with a renewal looking unlikely it is now believed that Real are prepared to cash in on the player in January.