London, Dec 21: English midfielder David Beckham has said that it was a dream to join AC Milan, and admitted that it will be tough to leave the club after the Italian giants insisted that he could stay as long as he wants.

Beckham was unveiled to the world's media - watched by wife Victoria - after joining on loan from LA Galaxy until March 9, The Sun reported.

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani claimed: "The doors will be open for all the periods he wants to come back and maybe who knows even remain in Milan."

Beckham uttered a few words in Italian, and then claimed it was a dream to join Milan after Three Lions boss Fabio Capello urged him to find a top club.

The former Manchester United midfielder, 33, said: "You have to excuse my Italian. I'm still learning. Buona sera, thanks from my heart, it's an honour. I love Italy and I'm very happy to be here."

"I'm very happy to be here it's a great honour. I've been very lucky to play for some of the biggest clubs in the world. I'm very honoured with this chance and I'm going to enjoy myself. It's going to be great fun and I hope to give everything like I've always done in my career. Thank you. Grazie mille" The Sun quoted Beckham, as saying.

Beckham, who will wear Milan's No 32 jersey, admitted that a loan move was the only way to save his international career because of Major League Soccer's lengthy close-season break.

He added: "I need to keep myself fit and keep playing during the season. With five months off, I can't do that. I was grateful to be given this opportunity. I wouldn't take it if I didn't think I could help the team and club. That's what I came here to do. It's not about anything else than the football." (ANI)