Beckham has to complete contract at Real

Former England captain David Beckham must complete the remaining six months of his contract at Real Madrid, club sporting director Predrag Mijatovic said yesterday.

Media reports have suggested Beckham might seek an early release to join his new club Los Angeles Galaxy after coach Fabio Capello said he would not play for Real again.

"Beckham still has six months of his contract left and he has to complete them. Beyond that it is up to the coach (whether he plays or not)," Mijatovic said.

Mijatovic also said Brazilian striker Ronaldo would not be allowed to leave Real on a free transfer.

"We have some offers for him and we'll see what happens before the end of this January transfer window," he said.

"But let me make one thing clear. There has been a lot of talk recently that we would release him from his contract for nothing. We cannot allow him to go for free."

Ronaldo, 30, has a contract until 2008 but has started only three league games this season.