Election victory edges Laporta closer to Beckham deal

Joan Laporta was tonight elected the new president of Barcelona, clearing the first hurdle in his attempt to sign England captain David Beckham from Manchester United.

Laporta had his bid to sign the United midfielder accepted by the Old Trafford club last Tuesday, subject to several conditions.

They included the Catalan lawyer winning the club’s elections, which he did by claiming 52.5% of the 51,520 votes cast today by club members.

Lluis Bassat, who had led the polls until Laporta announced his intention to sign Beckham, finished second with 31.8%.

However, it now remains to be seen whether Laporta can fulfil the next condition – the player himself agreeing to the transfer.

When United unveiled the deal, Beckham’s advisors responded by saying they had no plans to meet with Laporta and it is believed the 28-year-old, who returned from a family holiday in the United States yesterday, is thought to prefer a move to Barca’s great rivals Real Madrid.

However, even though Real can offer Champions League football next season while Barca are still vying for UEFA Cup qualification, Laporta has insisted all along he can convince Beckham to make the move if he can get the green light to begin talks with the player and his advisors.

Meanwhile Real are on course to win the Spanish title for a record 29th time.

They beat city rivals Atletico 4-0 tonight and will have a two-point advantage over title rivals Real Sociedad, who lost 3-2 at Celta Vigo, going into the final game of the season next weekend.