Beckham marriage problems?

Oct 21, 2008, 9:50 GMT

09/26/2008 - David Beckham and Victoria Beckham - David Beckham and Victoria Beckham Launch "Beckham Signature" Fragrance Collection at Macy\'s in New York on September 26, 2008 - Macy\'s - New York City, NY, USA © Janet Mayer / PR Photos

David and Victoria Beckham's marriage is under pressure, according to friends.

The celebrity couple - who moved to America last year after David signed a multi-million pound deal with soccer team Los Angeles Galaxy - are said to be spending increasing amounts of time apart as they pursue their own interests.

David, 33, is reportedly desperate to return to European soccer, while Victoria, 34, is determined to increase her profile by staying in the US.

A source told Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "David has to move back to Europe if he wants to continue to play international football. Victoria still believes they can make it big in America, but she fears a move back to Europe could kill off their Hollywood future for ever."

It has been claimed David's proposed loan deal with a Spanish or Italian team this winter could be "the straw which break's the camel's back".

The new claims come shortly after David - who has been married to the former Spice Girl for nine years - admitted he and Victoria find it tough being under constant scrutiny.

He said: "We have quite a lot of pressure, honestly, as a couple. But we've had that since we first started going out, so we've got used to it over the years. We have a way of working through it by looking out for each other."

However, their three sons - Brooklyn, nine, Romeo, six and three-year-old Cruz - help put their troubles in perspective.

David added: "Having children around takes all the pressure away. Either of us could have had the worst day at work, but it doesn't matter because then you come home and see your sons smiling."