Beckham, Sterling, Sancho: most expensive British footballers
a look at the biggest moves involving UK players He was England’s captain and arguably the most high-profile player in world football. David Beckham’s move away from Manchester United had been the source of intense speculation for months, but now it was official: the 28-year-old midfielder was joining Real Madrid. On July 2, 2003, Beckham was unveiled as the La Liga champions’ newest signing. He as handed the Real No 23 shirt also worn by club legend Alfredo di Stefano. Beckham would be joining a squad filled with the world’s finest talent — Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, Luis Figo, Roberto Carlos and Raul — a “dream” move. “I have always loved football,” he said. “Of course I love my family. I have a wonderful life, but football is everything to me and joining Real Madrid is a dream come true. “I would like to say thank you to everyone coming and joining me in my arrival. Gracias — hala Madrid!” Beckham had become the second most expensive British player of all-time, with only R...