LONDON – Former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham and her soccer-star husband, David, are expecting a second child in September.

"This year has been such an exciting year for us – England is in the World Cup finals, Victoria's had a second Top 10 hit and now we are expecting a new baby," the couple said in a statement Friday. "It's fantastic."

David Beckham – who plays for Manchester United and is captain of England's national soccer team – and his wife, also known as Posh Spice, have a 2-year-old son, Brooklyn.

David's father Ted, 53, who lives in Chingford, Essex, said, "I haven't spoken to David yet but it's brilliant news if it's true. It would be lovely to have a brother or sister for Brooklyn."

John Glover, who recently took over management of the former Spice Girl, said, "It is wonderful news and we are very pleased for them. Victoria will be continuing with her work and we are currently planning the promotion of her third single."

There had been speculation that Victoria was pregnant again. The couple confirmed the news, saying: "Brooklyn is also really looking forward to having a little brother or sister to play with."

Amid all the well-wishing, the Sun daily scented a scandal, alleging the Beckhams suddenly announced Victoria was pregnant – so early on in the pregnancy – because she was about to be dropped by her record label, Virgin.

A senior source at Virgin Records told the Sun last Wednesday she was to be dropped two days later. So Friday was the very day she was due for the chop, but she conveniently admitted she is expecting her and husband David's second child. After she revealed the news about her pregnancy, it would have taken a brave man to sack her amid the excitement.

According to the Sun, Virgin now says she is still on their books and that no decision has been made.

Speculation has been rife since her second solo single, "Mind of Its Own," limped into the Top 10 last week, following poor sales of her debut solo album. (AP, TRJ)