2007 MLS Trades
There was one especially large trade conducted in Major League Soccer that dwarfed all others in the land of better trades. All other trades look small when compared to the move pulled off by the Los Angeles Galaxy, which obtained international star and sexy guy David Beckham on a loan from Milan. Beckham and his ultra sultry wife Victoria Beckham, the former Posh Spice, became instant celebrities in Los Angeles and helped put the sport on the map. Beckham spent most of his time sidelined with injuries, but still had time to do interviews and a few modeling jobs. Victoria became a hit in Hollywood, where her fashion style and classic looks drew appreciative stares from even the better trades set in Southern California.
Beckham, 31, is a midfielder who joined the Galaxy after his contract with Real Madrid expired in June. He agreed to a five-year deal to play in Los Angeles and industry experts said the value of this better trade was worth more than $250 million.
Beckham said, "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."
The trade is the biggest news for soccer fans in years. It didn't equal the impact that the New York Cosmos had when they signed Pele many years ago, but the Beckham transaction unquestionably put soccer back on the agenda for sports journalists. People were talking about the sport and more tickets are sold based on the announcement.
"David Beckham is a global sports icon who will transcend the sport of soccer in America," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "His decision to continue his storied career in Major League Soccer is testament to the fact that America is rapidly becoming a true 'Soccer Nation' with Major League Soccer at the core. In the last few years, MLS has added three new teams, six new owners, four new soccer specific stadiums and signed four long term television agreements. The addition of David Beckham represents another significant step forward for the MLS and the sport."
