By DAN KARELL
One of the biggest stars in American sports could team up with David Beckham in his plan to start a Major League Soccer franchise in Miami.
According to numerous reports on Monday, Miami Heat star Lebron James confirmed his interest in joining Beckham’s ownership group for a potential MLS franchise based in Miami. James, arguably the best player in the NBA and one that’s well known in many living rooms throughout the world, is currently a minority owner of English Premier League club Liverpool.
“There’s some interest on both sides,” James told the Sun Sentinel. “David has become a good friend of mine over the last few years. I think it would be great for this city to have a football club for sure. There’s interest on both sides but it’s preliminary talks.”
The former England international and Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder revealed earlier this month that he has decided on Miami as the future site of a potential MLS expansion club, and now he’s currently looking for stadium sites and partners to join in his ownership group. In addition to James, Beckham has previously been reported to be in discussions with Bolivian billionaire Marcelo Clure and American Idol creator Simon Fuller. Beckham has yet to publicly comment on the reports.
Beckham has been seen a handful of James’ home games for the Heat, who have won two consecutive NBA titles.
“The research is still being made out,” James said, on joining up with Beckham. “I think it could be huge. You never know. I think this is a great town for soccer. There’s a lot of soccer players, there’s great youth soccer players here and people love the city as well. That definitely would help.”
South Florida once housed an MLS team, the Miami Fusion, but the club was contracted in 2001, just four years after it was founded.
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What do you think of these reports? Do you see James joining Beckham’s group? What kind of impact would this have on MLS if James does indeed join? Do you believe that this move could help soccer in Miami?
Share your thoughts below.