Soccer Hunk David Beckham to the US

LOS ANGELES, CA -- Expect to see a lot more of British soccer player and super hottie David Beckham in the years to come. The popular sports hunk is leaving Spanish club Real Madrid and joining the Los Angeles Galaxy, in a five year deal estimated worth $250 million.

Beckham, the former English captain who also starred for Manchester United, will join the Galaxy after his contract with Real Madrid expires on June 30. Los Angeles opens its season April 8 in Houston.

“I am proud to have played for two of the biggest clubs in football and I look forward to the new challenge of growing the world’s most popular game in a country that is as passionate about its sport as my own,” he said in a statement released Thursday.

The move was announced following the end of talks on extending the 31-year-old English midfielder’s contract with the Spanish club. MLS recently changed its rules on salary caps, clearing the way for Beckham to sign a lucrative deal. British news reports put the Galaxy deal at $250 million.

“This week, Real Madrid asked me to make a decision regarding my future and the offer to extend my contract by a further two seasons,” Beckham said in the statement. “After discussing several options with my family and advisers to either stay here at Madrid or join other major British and European clubs, I have decided to join the Los Angeles Galaxy and play in the MLS from August this year.”

Beckham became an International superstar when playing for UK club Manchester United and marrying former Spice Girl Victoria. He has become a worldwide style innovator and has appeared in numerous fashion magazines. He is also extremely popular in the gay community and has said that he enjoys being a gay icon.