Ancelotti optimistic about Beckham

CARNAGO, Italy (AP)—AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti remains hopeful to sign David Beckham on a permanent contract, despite the Los Angeles Galaxy ruling out further talk about a deal.

“We’ve still got 20 days to close the deal. Galaxy has forced the situation, but there’s time before March 9,” Ancelotti told the ANSA news agency Saturday. “My wish is that he can play in other derbies.”

On Friday, the Galaxy said Milan had failed to meet the MLS deadline to make an improved second bid for Beckham, who has stated he wants to remain in Italy when his three-month loan period ends on March 9.

The coach also denied for a second time that he would be taking the vacant Chelsea manager’s job when caretaker coach Guus Hiddink steps down at the end of the season.

“For me there is zero possibility of this being my last derby against Inter,” he said. “The rumors about my future have troubled me. I’ve still got a year and a half left before I have to renew my contract, so there’s time. It’s not a priority.”

Label: Sport