Beckham’s representatives, in fact, said in a statement Beckham felt he had been used as a “political pawn” in the Barcelona presidential election.

Real Madrid’s sporting director Jorge Valdano, meanwhile, said last night that his club will not discuss Beckham until the Spanish season is completed, with Sunday’s game against Athletic Bilbao the final game in the Primera Liga.

Beckham is thought to be interested in Madrid since they are in the Champions League whereas Barcelona will be limited to the UEFA Cup next season if results go their way this weekend.

A victory over Bilbao would ensure that Madrid, who go into the game two points in front of Real Sociedad, win the Primera Liga title.

Valdano offered his congratulations to new Barcelona president Laporta and also firmly declared he does not want a “war” with the Catalans over Beckham.

“My intention is not to be at war with Barcelona for the signing of the English midfielder,” Valdano stressed.

“I take this opportunity to congratulate Laporta for having won and we wish him the best of luck in his role there.”

Meanwhile the Italian press reported today that Real winger Luis Figo could join Inter Milan because the Spanish giants still owe money from the transfer of Ronaldo to the Bernabeu before last season.

If Beckham were to arrive and Figo to depart, the England star would be expected to play in the Portuguese midfielder’s position in Madrid.