BEIJING, June 11 (Xinhuanet) -- Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon was quoted in the Spanish media Sunday saying he would try to persuade David Beckham to stay and would use an escape clause in the English star's contract to get out of the deal.

    "We have to sit down with him, his representatives and with (Madrid sport director Predrag) Mijatovic, take a look at that clause and decide among us," said Calderon, speaking at the French Open final in Paris. "But for me, I would love it if he stayed at our club."

    But Simon Oliveira, Beckham's agent said the premier midfielder is headed for Los Angeles next month.

    "There is no intention of getting out of the Galaxy deal or reneging on the Galaxy deal," Oliveira told The Associated Press on Sunday.

    Galaxy president and general manager Alexi Lalas told The Associated Press there is no escape clause in Beckham's contract.

    "On the surface of it, it's a benign comment," Lalas said. "I don't doubt they would love nothing more than to have David Beckham continue with the team. Nothing has changed from our standpoint. We are eagerly awaiting his arrival.

    "In life and soccer, timing is everything," Lalas added. "He recognized an opportunity as did we. He saw a great opportunity for him and his family, for a challenge, and to continue his professional soccer career. I don't think he's looked back since."

    Beckham's contract with Real Madrid ends June 30. Lalas said he expected Beckham to arrive in Los Angeles in mid-July and play in his first game shortly after that. Beckham has already bought a house in Los Angeles, Lalas said.

    (Agencies)