Beckham extends contract with LA Galaxy

England legend David Beckham has signed a new two-year contract with MLS side LA Galaxy.

The 36-year-old's deal with the California-based side expired at the end of December and he had been strongly linked with a move elsewhere, rejecting a move to cash-laden French side Paris Saint-Germain.

Beckham arrived in Los Angeles back in 2007 after winning a La Liga title with Real Madrid but after being given the opportunity to return to Europe, the former England captain admits he is still enjoying his time in the US, and that he wants win trophies with LA Galaxy.

"This was an important decision for me. I had many offers from clubs from around the world, however, I'm still passionate about playing in America and winning trophies with the Galaxy," Beckham said in a statement on the club's official website.

"I've seen firsthand how popular soccer is now in the States and I'm as committed as ever to growing the game here.

"My family and I are incredibly happy and settled in America and we look forward to spending many more years here."

LA Galaxy manager Bruce Arena, meanwhile, is delighted the club's talisman has decided to extend his stay.

Arena said: "I am thrilled that David has chosen to rejoin the Galaxy, especially as he had numerous options where he could continue his career.

"I felt that he was one of the best players in all of MLS last season and we could not have achieved the success that we did without him.

"We look forward to trying to replicate that success this season with David once again in a Galaxy uniform."

Beckham's manager and business partner, Simon Fuller, negotiated the deal on the midfielder's behalf and echoed the former Manchester United midfielder's thoughts, insisting the growth of the sport in the United States is of the utmost importance.

Fuller said: "When David and I discussed making the move from Real Madrid to the LA Galaxy back in 2007, our minds were firmly focused on the massive opportunity of helping to grow soccer in the United States.

"We have made great progress over the past five years in raising the profile of soccer domestically and the MLS on a worldwide stage, and we are encouraged by all the results.

"However, clearly this is an ongoing mission and this new deal confirms our commitment to continuing our journey and making sure the world's biggest sport, soccer, continues to grow in the world's most passionate sports loving nation, the USA."