Madrid: Real Madrid are hoping to talk to David Beckham about a contract extension.

The former England captain has said he wants to stay with the Spanish club after his contract expires at the end of the season, and Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon also wants to sit down with the player.

“The intention from the club is to sit down and discuss a new deal,” Beckham spokesman Simon Olivera said on Monday. “Nothing’s been discussed yet.”

Real Madrid want to keep Beckham mainly for his athletic value, Calderon said.

“Of course the criteria was based on sports. Marketing issues are important but in this Real Madrid sports aspects take priority,” Calderon said.