Monaco make approach to sign David Beckham

It would mean the 37-year-old agreeing to play in the second tier of French football, however, and there are a number of other offers on the table.

Sources close to the player have confirmed an approach by Monaco but indicated they are not regarded as favourites.

Beckham would probably prefer to go to Paris St Germain, if a suitable offer is forthcoming, and team up again with coach Carlo Ancelotti and team director Leonardo, who Beckham knows from his two previous loan spells with AC Milan.

There are also offers from China, Russia and Brazil on the table, which Beckham will consider after Los Angeles Galaxy’s MLS Cup final against Houston.

Monaco’s once lofty position in European football has declined to the extent that the 2004 Champions League finalists were relegated from Ligue 1 in 2010. They were taken over a year ago by billionaire Russian businessman Dmitry Rybolovlev, who has ambitions to regain their former status.

Beckham has revealed he has numerous offers but the former Manchester United midfielder does not expect a return to the Barclays Premier League.

“I’m lucky because at 37 years old, I’ve been offered some exciting options,” he said. “I’ve got quite a few offers on the table.”

But asked if a return to England was on the cards, the childhood United fan was more cautious. “I’ve always said I think I would struggle to come back and play in England because I’ve played for the biggest club in the world, the biggest club in England, Manchester United, and I couldn’t see myself playing for any other Premiership team. But you never know.”

l San Jose Earthquakes striker Chris Wondolowski was voted Major League Soccer’s Most Valuable Player for the 2012 season. The US international equalled the MLS’s goals per season record with 27 strikes. Former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry of the New York Red Bulls was second in the vote of clubs, media and fellow players.