In amongst the hyped up Beckham goes to madrid coverage, this article "Transfer tied up 'weeks ago'" suggests what I've thought all along... that "The ending of the Beckham drama has been known for ages".
Interesting, that Beckham who is often portrayed as not the brightest guy, has handled this whole process very wisely. Seems he at least has enough brains to get good advisors !
I think it is a good move for him, he's always overcome every obstacle presented to him, and in his own (daft haircut and silly pop star wifey) way is a great character. (Should have gone to West ham !)