AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini has defended David Beckham's motivations for wanting to join the Rossoneri in the winter transfer window.

The England midfielder is negotiating a short loan move to the Italian giants from the Los Angeles Galaxy during the MLS off-season.

Beckham claims his main reason for wanting to play a few months in Serie A next year is to maintain his fitness and not just to earn more England call-ups.

"Beckham is coming here to train, to remain in good form and to still be an important part of his national team," Maldini said.

"I feel they are all positive motivations.

"Milan has no reservations signing veteran players and has always taken into account the image and communication factors.

"As long as you have image and technical values together, all is well."

The 33-year-old Beckham would join a star-studded team, featuring Brazilian playmakers Kaka and Ronaldinho among others.