David Beckham Transfer Options: 5 Teams That Would Gladly Take Him

Nearly five years ago, David Beckham signed the largest, most publicized contract in the history of American soccer.

Even if you didn't follow soccer, you heard about it.

Headlines around the world breathlessly exclaimed the news that Beckham, who at 31 was still near his prime, had signed a $250 million deal. It turned out that figure had more to do with bonuses and incentives than base salary, but word of the blockbuster deal spread anyway.

Around that time, followers of American soccer started dreaming big dreams.

The most famous—though certainly not the best—soccer player in the world was coming to America. Soccer was finally going to take off as a spectator sport, and David Beckham was going to be the Soccer Jesus.

It hasn't turned out that way. Beckham has put in his time with the LA Galaxy. He made it to the playoffs a few times. He had a bust-up with Landon Donovan. He spent a loan spell in Italy with AC Milan.

But now, the word is that he wants to return to top-flight football.

That's all good and nice, but where exactly will Beckham end up?

If you follow the news, you've probably heard that he's been linked strongly with acronym-league giants QPR and PSG. But other reports have linked him to Spurs and Arsenal—or to signing a contract extension with the Galaxy.

Don't worry: We'll get to all of it. Starting right now.

1. Queens Park Rangers

This is the English club that has been linked most often to a move for Beckham.

Here, the Telegraph reports that QPR honcho Tony Fernandes is interested in signing the 36-year-old former England international.

Here, the Daily Mail claims QPR and the Galaxy have already opened negotiations over the transfer.

Here, the Mirror links both QPR and Spurs to Beckham.

And here, the Guardian passes along a whisper or two about the whole situation.

Clearly, QPR is interested. The club made a splash in the most recent transfer market, signing Joey Barton from Newcastle and Armand Traore from Arsenal, among others.

If the club's directors have their way, Beckham might be the next name headed to Loftus Road in January.

2. Paris Saint-Germain

PSG is the other club to have been linked strongly with a move for Beckham.

After recently being taken over by Qatari money, the French giants have invested heavily in their squad and look to be a favorite in the Ligue 1 race. If reports are to be believed, their next target is Beckham.

This BBC report says PSG sporting director Leonardo is interested in bringing Beckham to France. Leonardo coached Beckham when the latter played on loan at AC Milan.

This report from ESPN basically says the same thing.

The Daily Mail and Mirror have also reported on the subject.

According to that BBC report, PSG spent £75.6 million during the summer transfer window. The club clearly has enough money to sign Beckham.

Now it's a question of whether Beckham wants to play in France.

3. Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs have long shown interest in Beckham.

Back in the previous January window, they tried to get Beckham on loan.

According to reports, Beckham completed a medical and started to train with Spurs. But the deal eventually fell through.

More recently, Spurs have again been linked with a move for Beckham.

This report says that Tottenham and Arsenal are Beckham's preferred destinations.

What to make of it? We'll just have to wait until January to find out.

4. Arsenal

This report claims Arsenal and Spurs are Beckham's preferred destinations.

Arsenal started the season poorly. A thin squad contributed to the club's famous 8-2 defeat at Manchester United. Arsene Wenger responded by spending more cash on deadline day than he had in his previous 15 years as manager (at least it seemed that way).

Oh, and Beckham did train with Arsenal back in 2008.

The Gunners probably will be looking for more help in January. But signing David Beckham, a 36-year-old Englishman, doesn't feel like their style.

5. Manchester City

Why not?

Remember that BBC report about Beckham and PSG? Scroll down to the part where there's a video with a guy wearing glasses and you'll find an item saying Manchester City spent the most money of any European club during the most recent transfer window.

Anyone think that's over with?

Anyone think Manchester City would love to gig Manchester United by signing another former player?

Yes, this is purely speculation. But yes, we could see it happening.