In this week's peek around the league: Matt Pickens looks in line for a big raise, a new Wizards stadium is in jeopardy and Luis Figo is linked with an MLS move (again).

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After years of speculation, Luis Figo may finally be headed to Major League Soccer. Spanish language publication Clarin is reporting that the Portuguese legend has inked a deal with Anschutz Entertainment Group, who own two MLS Clubs: the Houston Dynamo and the Los Angeles Galaxy. With Los Angeles having used their designated player slots, Houston could be the franchise lining up to sign the former World Player of the Year.

Also linked with stateside moves this week: Norwich striker Darren Huckerby and (not for the first time) former Ecuador goal ace Augustin Delgado.

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After a solid 2007 season, Chicago Fire starting goalkeeper Matt Pickens is poised to sign a new contract. The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Pickens will see a raise that will pay him five times more than the $32,340 he earned in 2007. The 25-year old goalie recorded 10 shutouts last season.

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Real Salt Lake’s new stadium is expected to open in late 2008, but the search for a stadium sponsor is in full throttle. The franchise is doing a nationwide search for a sponsor to have their name on the stadium to be located in Sandy, Utah. The club hopes that the naming rights fee will generate $1.5 million a year in revenue.

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Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger is looking forward to David Beckham’s training stint with the English giants. Wenger told the International Herald Tribune, "I admire how strong Beckham has been mentally through his career because he went through some tough times," Wenger said.

"I respect the fact that he has always loved football and he has always shown respect for his managers even when he was dropped. He didn't come out in a silly way, a spoilt way. Also, he has always delivered when it was expected of him, he has shown toughness."

Beckham is returning to game shape in hopes of being included in the England squad for their February 6th friendly against Switzerland. 

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The Kansas City soccer specific stadium project could shortly hit a huge snag. A petition is in place to force the stadium project to a public vote. If 8,500 more signatures are put on the petition, a vote will take place.

"The Wizards need to be in their new stadium in two years," city councilman John Sharpe told KMBC television. "Any delay for a vote like this will kill the project."