What a day!

Last updated : 11 January 2007 By Paul Smith

Beckham... Moving further away from England
David Beckham has agreed a five year deal to join Major League Soccer outfit Los Angeles Galaxy. The former England Captain will team up with the American outfit in July, when his current contract at Real Madrid expires. It has been reported that he will earn a massive £103 million during his stay there, before sponsorship deals.

MLS have called it a momentous day, and with Beckham still only 31, he joins with much ability still to give. There were offers from top British and European clubs, but perhaps the most famous name in ‘Soccer' will join LA Galaxy instead, seemingly putting an end to his once successful England career.

It's been another busy day in League 2, with the top story coming from Wales. Wrexham have today sacked manager Denis Smith and his assistant, Kevin Russell. With the Red Dragons languishing in twentieth place, despite having a squad predicted to be good enough for a push for the playoffs, Smith has ultimately paid the price for a season of inconsistency. Coach Brian Carey is in temporary charge.

On the transfer front, Bury have allowed midfield playmaker Dwayne Mattis to join Championship outfit Barnsley. The Tykes have paid an initial £50,000, that fee could rise to £75,000 with a 20% sell on clause also in place.

Moving from the Championship is Burnley midfielder Micah Hyde. Beckham's former Under 11's team mate has made a surprising move to moneybags Peterborough United. Manager Keith Alexander has signed the former Watford ace for £75,000. If the Posh are promoted, then the fee will become £100,000.

Bottom side Torquay United have been the busiest movers in the division, signing four new players. Nathan Simpson, Darren Baxter, Leon Hapgood an John Wheeldon have signed on the dotted line. Going the other way is former Notts midfielder Adam Murray who leaves to join Macclesfield Town for £17,000.

Hyde... Joining big spenders Peterborough

Late last night MK Dons signed another two players, with Reading youngster Jonathon Hayes joining on loan and defender Jude Sterling signing a permanent contract. Sterling joins from Peterborough after an initial week's loan deal.

The biggest rumour of the day in League 2 has come from Grimsby Town. Manager Alan Buckley is desperate to add to his squad following defeats in each of the Mariners last four games. With a date with Sky next on the agenda when they face Walsall, Buckley is determined to sign Leyton Orient target man Paul Connor. The former Swansea and Rochdale man is interesting a further two clubs, though Grimsby are the current favourites for his signature. Meanwhile defender Tom Newey won't be joining Huddersfield.

Elsewhere in England, Djimi Traore has joined Portsmouth from Charlton for £1 million, whilst Charlton have taken Ben Thatcher from Manchester City for £500,000. Portsmouth have also signed French youngster Arnold Mvuemba on loan from Rennes.

Emiliano Insuela has joined Rafa Benitez at Liverpool, on loan from Boca Juniors. The Argentine left-back could sign permanently if he impresses.

Sheffield United have brought striker Jonathon Stead back to the Premiership. He joins from Sunderland, where he had a dismal spell, despite his successful loan spell recently at Derby County. He joins the Blades for £750,000.

Wigan have staged a mini clearout, allowing Gary Teale to join Derby, Mike Pollit to link up with Burnley and David Wright to sign for Ipswich Town.

Carew... Wanted by English clubs
Rumours

The biggest Premiership rumour of the day once again involves West Ham. Alan Curbishley has now been linked with Blackburn Rovers' want away right-back Lucas Neil.

They have also been linked with Norwegian star John Carew, who is surplus to requirements at Lyon. The tall striker is also said to be wanted by Liverpool and Newcastle United.

Finally, Gareth Southgate is desperate to add to his Middlesbrough midfield, and has made inquiries to West Brom about the availability of Zoltan Gera. He is also interested in current Portsmouth loanee Manuel Fernandes.