David Beckham's nephew will undergo further throat surgery in a fight for his life.

The retired soccer star's sister Lynne gave birth to Jenson two weeks ago, but the baby has been seriously ill and in intensive care, suffering from severe respiratory problems.

According to reports in The Sun on Sunday newspaper, the child will undergo a tracheotomy - where a tube is inserted into the throat - to bypass his mouth.

The tube may have to stay in for years, and Jenson has been diagnosed with a vocal chord disorder, along with possible lung scarring.

It was previously revealed David - who spent Christmas in the Maldives with wife Victoria and kids Brooklyn,14, Romeo, 11, Cruz, 8, and two-year-old daughter Harper - has been in ''constant contact'' with his sister and her partner Kevin Briggs.

Jenson's father recently told of how his son was ''fighting for life'' from birth, but noted the former Manchester United star has been showing concern for his nephew.

Kevin said: ''When he was born he was fighting for life. We're all very worried but the doctors have been brilliant. David's been in constant contact.''