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Part 538 (and counting) of the David Beckham Transfer Saga finds the England captain in the US, his future either in Spain or Italy and his ...

Part 538 (and counting) of the David Beckham Transfer Saga finds the England captain in the US, his future either in Spain or Italy and his footballing skills in the shadow of his celebrity status. Talk of his transfer changes as frequently as his hairdo, with as much swing as one of his free-kicks. Here’s a summary of the latest (as we write):

THE PLAYER: Currently in the US on a promo tour for his wife ahead of his team’s visit there next month. In between is a flying trip to Asia

THE CLUB: Manchester United have ‘‘confirmed’’ they are open to offers; in other words, it’s a matter of time and may the highest bidder win. Why would they want to sell Beckham? Two main reasons: one, manager Alex Ferguson believes he’s outlived his utility at Old Trafford,is too one-dimensional. Two, his market value is at its peak now and will only diminish with time.

THE CONTENDERS

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REAL MADRID: The world’s best team needs another jewel in the crown. Who wouldn’t want to play for Real? On the other hand, would he actually play or sit on the bench?

AC MILAN: European champions, could offer Shevchenko in exchange deal. Posh would love Milan but would Becks meet the same fate as Rivaldo?

INTER MILAN: Reportedly offered Posh a TV deal, and there’s the prospect of combining with Javier Zanetti. But no guarantee of winning trophies.

BARCELONA: Swinging city, great stadium, Kluivert and Mendieta as teammates. But no European action next season makes it doubtful.

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THE OUTCOME: Exit seems likely and Real are the front-runners. But the Fat Lady is just clearing her throat and there will be several twists in this opera before the move from Beckingham Palace.

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