Sports briefs: David Beckham will play for Paris Saint-Germain

Soccer • In a dazzling career filled with riches and titles, David Beckham is taking his globe-trotting soccer tour to one of the most alluring destinations of all.

The 37-year-old midfielder signed a five-month contract with Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday, and has agreed to essentially play for free. He will donate his salary to a children's charity.

The former England captain chose the ambitious French club after rejecting offers from other teams. The move came as the transfer window was starting to close and marks the latest step in a career that has seen Beckham win titles with Manchester United, Real Madrid and the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Beckham recently finished a six-year stint with the Galaxy in Major League Soccer. Whether he can still be a force in European soccer is uncertain, especially with so many talented players on a PSG team that has cost nearly $366 million to assemble since its Qatari owners took charge in June 2011.

• English Premier League club Stoke City has finalized its acquisition of Brek Shea after the American winger secured a work permit and international clearance just hours before the January transfer window closed. The 22-year-old Shea signed a four-and-half-year contract worth $4 million for his move from FC Dallas of Major League Soccer.

Packers receiver Driver retiring

NFL • Donald Driver, the Green Bay Packers' all-time leading receiver, announced his retirement Thursday, with a public ceremony planned for Feb. 6 at Lambeau Field.

"I've always said I never want to wear another uniform," Driver said. "I feel like I can still play, but if I can't play for my organization, then I can't play for anyone else."

Driver finishes his 14-year career as Green Bay's all-time leader in yards receiving (10,137 yards), and catches (743), and is third behind Don Hutson and Sterling Sharpe with 61 touchdown receptions.

From wire reports