Donovan inks new deal, Everton loan possible

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan signed a four-year contract extension Wednesday with the Major League Soccer club, paving the way for a loan to Everton of the English Premiership.

Donovan, this year’s Most Valuable Player of the US league, is set to stay with the Galaxy through 2013 after scoring a team-high 12 goals this season and together with England’s David Beckham leading the team to the MLS Cup finals.

The Galaxy announced their captain would be allowed to pursue overseas loan deals provided he returns for the start of the 2010 MLS season on March 27. Donovan said he would not have signed a deal without that provision.

“I am excited to be able to pledge my future to the Galaxy by signing this new contract,” Donovan said. “This is a great day for me both personally and professionally.”

Galaxy coach Bruce Arena said that while no loan deal has been completed, one likely would be done with Everton from January to mid-March. Everton already features a top US talent, goalkeeper Tim Howard.

That would allow Donovan to get a first-hand look for at least 10 weeks at the talent he and his US teammates will face June 12 in their World Cup opener against England, while at the same time giving English talent a better look at the American playmaker whom Beckham knows well.

Beckham is on a loan deal to AC Milan that does not require his return until after the World Cup.

Donovan, 27, is not available for transfer, Arena said.

“He is our captain, our leader and the league’s MVP and we believe that Landon signing this new contract is a key aspect to bringing the Galaxy further success both on and off the field,” Arena said.