Real Madrid now world's wealthiest club

LONDON, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Superstar David Beckham has moved his Real Madrid soccer team into first place when it comes to making money, bumping Manchester United into second place.

The Deloitte Football Money League shows in 2004-05, Real Madrid earned $323 million, $34 million more than United, which topped the list for the previous eight years. However, its earnings fell to $289 million after some relatively poor seasons, Sky News said.

"Beckham has been a major factor," said Deloitte spokesman Dan Jones. "You can't put a figure on his impact -- he's the most famous footballer in the world."

Rounding out the top five were AC Milan with $274 million, Juventus with $269 million and Chelsea with $258 million.