Miami Heat star LeBron James and international soccer legend David Beckham are in talks about potentially bringing an MLS franchise to South Florida, according to ESPN.
The two-time reigning NBA MVP already has an ownership stake with Liverpool of the English Premier League, and has boasted of closely following the sport during his summer off seasons.
The recently retired Beckham, easily one of the sport's most recognizable players, has been exploring the idea of running his own MLS franchise for the past several months.
"There's some interest in both sides," James told ESPN on Monday of the early talks he and Beckham have engaged in. "David has become a good friend of mine over the last few years, and I think it would be great for this city to have a football club for sure."
The MLS last had a South Florida franchise in 2001 when the Fusion of Fort Lauderdale folded after just three seasons.
"The research is still being made out, but I think it can be huge," James told ESPN. "But you never know. I think this is a great town for soccer. There are a lot of soccer players here. There is a lot of great youth soccer here."
ESPN reports if James and Beckham are able to reach agreement on launching a MLS franchise, it would be the latest of several business ventures James has attached himself to since leaving his hometown Cleveland for South Beach more than three seasons ago.
He already owns a sports apparel store in a suburban Miami mall, and his wife, Savannah, is set to open a juice bar near the couple's home in Coconut Grove.
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