However, the former England captain insists he will return to the Los Angeles Galaxy for the start of the next MLS season.

"Although nothing is confirmed at present, we can confirm that talks are taking place with Milan with regard to a short-term loan move at the start of next year," read a short statement on the midfielder's official website www.davidbeckham.com.

"David very much remains a Galaxy player, and he will be in Los Angeles for the start of the 2009 MLS season."

Beckham, 33, has won 107 England caps and is determined to maintain his fitness in order to stay in the plans of national team coach Fabio Capello.

It is anticipated he will join Milan at the start of January.

mfl

AC Milan coach Ancelotti is thrilled at the news but has warned Beckham he would have to fight for a place on the pitch should he make the move to the San Siro.

"Regarding Beckham, it's very pleasing news," he said. "He is a serious lad, a professional and these are all positive signs.

"Milan are focusing on the present, looking to bring in useful players.

"Beckham will find himself a place at [Rossoneri training ground] Milanello, then we'll see on the pitch - but in any case it would only be a question of a few months."

The link to Milan has arisen as Beckham tries to ensure he remain in the England squad for forthcoming friendlies against Germany and, probably, Spain, which would enable him to break Bobby Moore's record number of caps for an outfield player.

Last winter saw the former Manchester United star train with Arsenal in a bid to maintain his fitness for England during the American league's close season.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has said he would welcome Beckham back should his move to Milan fall through - but will not be making a shock swoop for the LA Galaxy player.

"I have not been in touch with him, and certainly not as a player for the club," he said.

"But if he wants to be fit and practise why not?

"However, we have Theo Walcott who plays in this position, Emmanuel Eboue who plays in this position so we are not looking for a right midfielder."

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who was Beckham's coach for the first 10 years of his career, claims he is not surprised the player could be on his way back to Europe.

"It is hardly a surprise," said 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.

"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."

Meanwhile, AC Milan players have welcomed the news that Beckham could become their new team-mate.

Andriy Shevchenko, who returned to Milan this summer after a disappointing spell with Chelsea, said: "We would all be happy if he arrives and we would welcome him with open arms.

"He is a great professional and he would come to play at a high level, which is clearly a sign that he wants to be considered for the national team."

Strike partner Filippo Inzaghi is equally confident that Beckham's arrival is good news for Milan, who are looking to strengthen their midfield as they bid to challenge for silverware in both Serie A and the UEFA Cup.

"I would really like it if Beckham came to give us a hand to win," he said. "He will certainly get a big welcome."