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By Simon Evans
SEATTLE, Nov 22 (Reuters) - David Beckham has an option to own a future 20th team in Major League Soccer, the North American league's commissioner said on Sunday.
Speaking to reporters at halftime in the title-deciding MLS Cup final, which Beckham's L.A. Galaxy lost to Real Salt Lake on penalties, Garber dismissed speculation the England midfielder might be involved in a possible Montreal franchise.
However, Garber for the first time gave details of how Beckham might become an owner of a team in the league.
"We didn't talk about this until recently but David has the option for our 20th team," Garber said.
"That option can't be exercised until after 2011 or after he stops playing so we have got some time to figure that out."
Montreal could become the 19th team in the league following the arrival of Philadelphia next year and Vancouver and Portland in 2011.
After Sunday's loss, Beckham said he would be taking up the option and was already looking at different cities for a team.
"We've got options obviously at this stage I am not going to say what they are but it will happen eventually."
Beckham's current deal with the Galaxy runs out at the end of the 2011 season. (Editing by John O'Brien; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com) ((john.p.obrien@thomsonreuters.com; +65 9389 1795; Reuters Messaging: john.obrien.reuters.com@reuters.net. For the Reuters sports blog Left Field go to: http://blogs.reuters.com/sport))
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