David Beckham should look enviously towards the Nation’s capital. Juan Pablo Angel probably called his agent this morning and asked if he could arrange a transfer.

Both New York and Los Angeles have (or will soon have) fantastic new stadiums and significant fiscal wherewithal. They are two of the largest clubs in the country and draw players and fans from around the world.

But they don’t have what D.C. United will have (and Toronto already has, for that matter) in three to five years: a stadium located within city limits.

The Washington Post reported this morning that D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty had proposed a deal with the city council to include a $190 million soccer-specific stadium in the Poplar Point project. The stadium would seat 27,000 with the possibility for 8,000 temporary seats for larger matches.

Perhaps this uncorks the champagne a bit too early, but Fenty’s transition from his previous reticence in the matter, combined with the support of Ward 8 City Council member Marion Barry, signals this move is more likely to happen than not. The stadium and development would provide significant community development for D.C.’s most impoverished area, making it a win-win for all involved.

If the stadium is indeed included, United should take its place at the forefront of MLS clubs.

The most consistently successful side in league history (something neither Los Angeles and New York can approach) has increased its profile by lavishing significant funds during the off-season, acquiring former Argentine international Marcelo Gallardo amongst a raft of signings.

New ownership has made a significant financial commitment since taking the helm, increasing spending to match New York and approach Los Angeles. Victor MacFarlane and Will Chang have combined that financial commitment with significant political acumen to rescue a deal that looked dead only months ago when MacFarlane’s company was passed over for the primary development deal on the site.

The stadium was the only piece missing to anoint United as the league’s premier club. The crumbling, old relic of a soccer palace it currently calls home has served its purpose but does not represent the new wave of soccer-specific stadia that represents MLS on the world stage.

That is no longer the case, given this deal.

Forget the league hype and look at the evidence. D.C. United is the league’s premier club. Even if they don’t have Becks.