Paris Saint-Germain shareholder 'interested in funding David Beckham's MLS franchise'

Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) principal shareholder is reportedly in talks to buy a stake in David Beckham's Miami Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. Qatar Sports Investment are among a number of parties interested in funding Miami Beckham United (MBU), the ownership vehicle behind the proposed MLS team.

Beckham, who ended his trophy-laden playing career with PSG in 2012-13, will remain heavily involved in the project regardless of any sale, according to the BBC.

Beckham's efforts to establish his franchise in the MLS have struggled to progress. The ownership vehicle has found it hard to find a suitable site to build a stadium. However, MBU are aiming to join the MLS in 2018.

"As Miami Beckham United lays the groundwork for launching a world-class soccer club in Miami, our team has attracted interest from a number of potential partners," MBU said in a statement.

"David Beckham, Simon Fuller and Marcelo Claure are evaluating these possibilities, with the goal of bringing additional resources and international expertise that draws players, staff and fans from around the world.

"At the same time, we are performing due diligence on our stadium site as we move toward finalising the acquisition of two privately held properties and a third county-owned parcel over the coming weeks."

The ex-England captain has developed strong links to Qatari football in recent years, having played for PSG and defended the Arab country's right to host the World Cup in 2022.

"Whether it's corrupt or not, those countries have been chosen," the former Manchester United star said last year. "People need to get behind that. It's all about bringing football to new countries. I think they should stick with it."