The Associated Press

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham controls the ball against AC Milan defenders Massimo Ambrosini (23) and Mathieu Flamini (5) during the second half of a soccer game in Carson, Calif. on Sunday, July 19, 2009. Milan and Galaxy tied 2-2.(AP Photo/Hector Mata)

MILAN, Italy — AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani says that David Beckham's return to the club on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy in January is nearly "100 per cent" certain.

Beckham has long been linked with a second loan spell at AC Milan, after performing well in a six-month stay with the Serie A side last season.

"A great player will arrive, his first name is David, his last name Beckham," Galliani was quoted as saying by the ANSA news agency on Monday. Galliani made the remarks to Sky Italia.

"It is practically 100 per cent certain, what's missing is the signatures, but there is total agreement," Galliani added.

Beckham wants to return to Europe to maintain his place in England's World Cup squad.