Real move an exciting challenge, says Beckham

David Beckham spoke for the first time about his move to Real Madrid on Thursday, saying he was looking forward to the challenge.

"I'm very excited to become part of Real Madrid," Beckham told a news conference carried by Japanese television

"It's a very exciting experience and it's going to be a very good challenge for me, on the football field and off it," he said, adding that he was looking forward to living in Spain.

The England captain agreed to join Real Madrid from Manchester United on Tuesday in a deal worth up to 35 million euros ($41.06 million).

Beckham and his wife, former Spice Girl Victoria, arrived in Japan on Wednesday for a promotional tour. They were welcomed in Tokyo by hundreds of screaming fans.

It was the 28-year-old's first trip to the country since last year's World Cup, when he cemented his place as a fashion and marketing icon.

"It's amazing to be back in Japan," Beckham said. "Arriving at the airport was something special, something we've never seen as a couple.