Exclusive by John Sinnott

Chelsea eye Real duo

Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz believes David Beckham's move to Spain has seen him grow up as a footballer.

Since joining Real from Manchester United, Beckham has played in a central rather than a wide position, though he still plays in that role for England.

Queiroz told BBC Sport: "There is no doubt about it that David has improved as a player since coming to Europe.

"He has become stronger, the quality of his football has grown - now he can play in a variety of positions."

Queiroz added: "After playing one year with the likes of Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo, I believe he has grown up a lot.

"He can conduct the game from different positions. He will be vital for England in the summer during Euro 2004.

"When he plays in that central position for Real Madrid, the responsibility is much more than when he was playing on the right side.

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"Playing the number of the games - 35 to 40 matches a season - with the responsibility to decide the rhythm of the game, the point of the attack, short and long passes, everything has improved about him - his skills and his vision.

"I believe he is a lot stronger than when was at United.

"I also really believe he really enjoys this position."

Despite his improvement as a midfielder, speculation is mounting Beckham may return to England in the summer with Chelsea lining up a summer swoop for Beckham and Real's Brazilian striker Ronaldo.

On Wednesday Chelsea boss Ranieri told Italian newspaper Tuttosport that Blues owner Roman Abramovich is eyeing the pair.

"Yes, Chelsea are thinking of Ronaldo and Beckham," admitted Ranieri.

"There is only one person in the world who can try to take them from Real president Florentino Perez and he is called Roman Abramovich."

Real are in danger of finishing the season empty-handed after losing to Barcelona in La Liga on Sunday.

They are a point behind leaders Valencia and should they fail to win the league, the Spanish champions will end the season without any silverware.