BECKHAM: 'I have decided to join the Los Angeles Galaxy'

David Beckham announced Thursday that he will join MLS's Los Angeles Galaxy in August, signing a five-year deal with the club.

The former England international will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season.

''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, 31, said in a 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.''