London - The Los Angeles Galaxy were considering on Thursday a plea from David Beckham to let him join AC Milan on a permanent basis.

The England midfielder joined the Italian giants on loan last month, and is due to return to the US on March 9.

But the 33 year old's form there has confounded critics who expected him to make the step up from MLS to one of the world's toughest leagues, and both sides are understood to favour making the deal permanent.

Beckham himself dreams of playing in the 2010 World Cup, and he is well aware that England manager Fabio Capello is likely to look more kindly on that ambition if he is playing regularly at a high level.

"I think people have seen the way I've been since I've been back at this level again," Beckham said on Wednesday, after playing for Milan in a 2-2 friendly draw against Rangers in Glasgow.

"It's nothing against MLS and the football over there, because it's a game that will grow. But it will take quite a few years.

"I'm still confident that will happen eventually, but I want to have a chance of being involved in 2010 and I believe my best chance of doing so is to remain here.

"I have enjoyed my time (in Los Angeles). I knew I would enjoy it but I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I have, and do as well as I have."

Milan vice-president Alberto Galliani said on Wednesday that Beckham's lawyers are talking with Galaxy representatives and that Milan would like him if the US side gives its nod.

Beckham has scored twice in five competitive games for Milan, and set up two goals in Saturday's 3-0 win over Lazio. He is optimistic that Capello will include him in his squad for next week's friendly international away to Spain.

"When I was first thinking about going on loan, obviously I asked his advice on where I should play and he said 'All I can say to you is play at the highest level'," Beckham explained.

"I've expressed my desire to stay here for a while but at the moment I'm still a Galaxy player.

"I respect the Galaxy and everything they have done for me. They have always been great to me.

"But I hope they can come to an agreement and it's down to the clubs now.

"At this point it's out of my hands. I've said what my feelings are to both clubs.

"To be given the chance again to play at this level at my age is pretty incredible and I've enjoyed it so much I would like to continue it." (dpa)