Real Madrid unveiled England captain David Beckham as their latest signing at a glitzy ceremony beamed live across the world. Real legend Alfredo di Stefano handed Beckham the club's famous white shirt, adorned with the number 23.

'Beckham is here because we believe in him as a footballer... David, welcome to the dream league,' Real President Florentino Perez said. A beaming Beckham, wearing a white shirt and a light blue suit and accompanied by his wife Victoria aka Posh Spice, showed off his newly learned Spanish: 'Gracias, Senor di Stefano and Senor Perez...I've always loved football. Of course I love my family and I have a wonderful life but football is everything for me and joining Real Madrid is a dream come true.'

The British tabloids said Beckham moved from Manchester United to Real after disagreements with United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Sir Alex even flung a shoe at Beckham, causing a cut under the superstar's eye, an incident both men later underplayed.

Text: Ivan Crasto

Beckham signs for Real