AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini has defended David Beckham's motivations for wanting to join the Rossoneri in the winter transfer window.

The England midfielder is negotiating a short loan move to the Italian giants from the Los Angeles Galaxy during the MLS off-season.

Beckham claims his main reason for wanting to play a few months in Serie A next year is to maintain his fitness and not just to earn more England call-ups.

"Beckham is coming here to train, to remain in good form and to still be an important part of his national team," Maldini said.

"I feel they are all positive motivations.

"Milan has no reservations signing veteran players and has always taken into account the image and communication factors.

"As long as you have image and technical values together, all is well."

The 33-year-old Beckham would join a star-studded team, featuring Brazilian playmakers Kaka and Ronaldinho among others.

However, Maldini has warned that name alone does not guarantee success, as was evident at Beckham's former club, Real Madrid.

Madrid's policy of signing a 'galactico' at the start of each season backfired, with the club going three campaigns without winning the title from 2004 to 2006.

"The important thing (to remember) is that a team of 'galacticos' does not prevail," Maldini added.

"If we were to fail again this year it would be a disaster."

Milan, who failed to qualify for the Champions League after a disappointing fifth-place finish in Serie A last term, are hoping to compete for honours on the domestic front and in the UEFA Cup this campaign.