Real close to agreeing deal to extend Beckham's contract

MADRID, Aug 17 (Reuters) Real Madrid are close to agreeing a deal to extend David Beckham's contract beyond the end of the season, club president Ramon Calderon said.

''We have spoken with his agent and we are agreed that we should extend his contract,'' the Real supremo told Spanish sports daily AS today.

''Beckham has told me that he is happy in Madrid, that his children are happy, that Brooklyn speaks Spanish.... He is delighted with things and for Madrid he is a vital player for his contribution on the pitch and for what he represents.'' Beckham joined Real Madrid on a four-year contract from Manchester United in 2003, but has yet to win a major trophy at the club. Spanish media have reported that Real want to extend his contract until 2009.

The midfielder arrived late for Real Madrid training yesterday after his flight from England was delayed and new coach Fabio Capello hinted that he would be sanctioned by the club.

''It is an internal matter, but the rules are the same for everyone,'' the Italian told a news conference today.

The 31-year-old Beckham resigned the captaincy of England after the World Cup and was dropped by new coach Steve McClaren for yesterday's friendly against Greece.

REUTERS PM KN1757