Basketball star LeBron James has expressed an interest in helping David Beckham to set up an MLS franchise in Miami.

Beckham has made no secret of his desire to create an American franchise, with Miami strongly rumoured to be his first choice of location.

James, who plays for the Miami Heat and also has a minority stake in Liverpool, believes that the city would be a great choice to set up a football team and revealed that both parties are interested in teaming up to make it happen.

"David has become a good friend of mine. There's interest on both sides," James told South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

"I think this is a great town for soccer. There's a lot of soccer players, there's great youth soccer players here and people love the city as well. That definitely would help."

James also revealed that his knowledge of the game has increased since he established an associated with Liverpool as part of a partnership with the Anfield club's owners.

"I've grown to the point where I know exactly what's going on when I'm watching the game," he added.

Beckham was given the chance to become a team owner at a discounted price as part of his contract at LA Galaxy.