Ferguson backs Beckham Milan move

Sir Alex Ferguson is not surprised David Beckham could be on his way back to Europe.

Beckham is close to signing a short-term contract with AC Milan, with former Los Angeles Galaxy coach Ruud Gullit among those who think the England star will eventually stay at the San Siro on a permanent basis.

"It is hardly a surprise," said Manchester United boss Ferguson, who sold Beckham to Real Madrid in 2003. "Going to the United States does not get you the kind of football he is used to."

He added: "It is not the right level of football, therefore coming back into the mainstream of the game is not a surprise.

"People have been edging towards that quite a while now."

It is anticipated Beckham will join Milan at the beginning of January, although there is no chance of a dream meeting with United as the Serie A giants only qualified for the UEFA Cup this season.