CARSON, California: The Los Angeles Galaxy expects to know by Friday whether David Beckham will return to the team next month or remain with AC Milan.

‘We think it's best to come to a conclusion; either David is going to stay (with the Galaxy) or remain at AC Milan,’ Galaxy coach Bruce Arena said on Wednesday. ‘In order for our team to move forward, our league to move forward, it's best that we get a decision as soon as possible.’

Earlier in the day, Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber gave the Italian club a deadline to work out a transfer deal for Beckham. The league owns the contract of the 33-year-old midfielder.

‘By Friday, he is either coming back or he is transferred,’ Garber said. ‘If it is not resolved by Friday, I will not approve the transfer. This has been going on too long. ... There is no reason for it to drag on.’

Arena said he has no idea whether Beckham will be back.

‘I can't predict that. We have a short period of time to get it sorted out,’ he said.

‘I know we've had discussions with AC Milan and it will be interesting to see what they come back with this week in order to let both parties make the correct decision.

‘I think AC Milan understands where we're coming from and hopefully we can work something out over the next couple of days.’

Beckham signed a $32.5 million, five-year contract with MLS in 2007, but has said recently that he wants to continue to play for AC Milan. His loan to the Italian team expires on March 8.

Arena insists the Galaxy will be fine without or without Beckham.

‘Certainly when you lose a great player; he brings a lot to the team both on and off the field. However, this is a team sport. It's not like basketball where one player can make such a difference,’ the Galaxy coach said.

‘We have a bunch of good players here.’