AC Milan have been told they must agree a deal by Friday if they want to sign David Beckham from Los Angeles Galaxy.
Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber imposed the deadline on Wednesday evening.
Any deal would have to be approved by Garber, but he says he wants an agreement in place by the end of the week if the proposed transfer is to go ahead.
He told reporters on a conference call: "This Friday we need to know if they want to buy David Beckham or not.
"There is no reason why this should drag on. They either want to do it or don't want to do it.
"What they need to realise is that we are getting very close to the start of our season.
"We have to figure out what plans we need to make and if David Beckham is going to be a part of those plans."
Galaxy coach Bruce Arena added: "We think it's best to come to a conclusion - either David is going to stay (with the Galaxy) or remain at AC Milan.
"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."
Beckham, who joined Milan on loan at the beginning of January, has impressed during his month in Italy, scoring twice and earning a place in the Rossoneri's UEFA Cup squad.
The deal is due to expire on March 8, but Beckham has said recently that he wants to make the switch permanent.
Milan have already floated one offer for Beckham, but the club's owners, AEG, said the offer did not meet their valuation.
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Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber imposed the deadline on Wednesday evening.
Any deal would have to be approved by Garber, but he says he wants an agreement in place by the end of the week if the proposed transfer is to go ahead.
He told reporters on a conference call: "This Friday we need to know if they want to buy David Beckham or not.
"There is no reason why this should drag on. They either want to do it or don't want to do it.
"What they need to realise is that we are getting very close to the start of our season.
"We have to figure out what plans we need to make and if David Beckham is going to be a part of those plans."
Galaxy coach Bruce Arena added: "We think it's best to come to a conclusion - either David is going to stay (with the Galaxy) or remain at AC Milan.
"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."
Beckham, who joined Milan on loan at the beginning of January, has impressed during his month in Italy, scoring twice and earning a place in the Rossoneri's UEFA Cup squad.
The deal is due to expire on March 8, but Beckham has said recently that he wants to make the switch permanent.
Milan have already floated one offer for Beckham, but the club's owners, AEG, said the offer did not meet their valuation.
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