Laporta Backtracks On Beckham

New Barcelona president Joan Laporta has backtracked on his apparent promise to sign Manchester United's David Beckham.

Laporta came from nowhere to easily win Sunday's presidential election on the back of his plan to bring the England captain to the Nou Camp.

However, the 40-year-old lawyer has denied making any concrete vows to sign Beckham, but is looking forward to holding talks with the player's representatives.

"I did not promise to bring David Beckham to Barcelona," said Laporta.

"I said I had a agreement with Manchester United that contained conditions. One of those conditions was that I became president of the club. I have now done that."

However, he stressed his desire to sign Beckham, who continues to be strongly linked with Barca's arch-rivals Real Madrid.

"To make a strong football team it is very important we have players like David Beckham," he said.

"I know it is a difficult decision for Beckham and his family but I know he would be delighted to be in our city, our team, our country. We will speak to Beckham's representatives."