David Beckham’s representatives may have thought they have the upper hand in negotiating the former England captain’s new contract, but in an astonishing about-face, Real Madrid’s sporting director, Pedrag Mijatovic, told Italian television’s Sky TG 24 that his contract would not be renewed. When asked the question directly, Mijatovic responded, “No, Beckham’s contract was not renewed,” according to the Associated Press. However, it’s unclear whether his answer indicates that the player hasn’t signed or that the club has withdrawn the offer. Mijatovic’s words sparked all kinds of speculation in the press that Real-and particularly coach Fabio Capello-wants him out before the January transfer window closes. Ronaldo, who has been widely linked to AC Milan, and Antonio Cassano, who has been linked to Palermo, are also reportedly on Capello’s blacklist; the trio have been omitted from Thursday’s Copa del Rey clash against Real Betis. If indeed Mijatovic meant that Beckham would be leaving, it’s a strange about-face from last week, when he told the Spanish press Real intended to keep the former England captain for his ability on the field as well as his marketability. On Tuesday, Mijatovic said the club wanted an answer by next week-not by March as Beckham’s spokesperson indicated a week ago. Meanwhile, there have been unsubstantiated whisperings in the blogoshere that Major League Soccer’s LA Galaxy offered Beckham a four-year deal worth $9 million a season-less than he currently earns-though that offer may have been raised after other clubs expressed interest. This season, Beckham has only started seven of 25 games for Real Madrid.