Premier League clubs agree EFL funding proposal

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Premier League clubs have unanimously approved a funding proposal intended to form a new “strategic partnership” with the English Football League, potentially moving the two sides closer to resolving a long-running dispute over financial support for clubs below the top flight. The proposal is expected to be sent to the EFL in the coming days for consideration by its member clubs.

According to the BBC, no official value has been attached to the proposed 10-year agreement, and both organizations are avoiding a public negotiation over the figures. Sky News reported on Saturday that the package could be worth £1.5bn, but the Premier League has neither confirmed nor denied that amount. The BBC says the plan is understood to be fully funded, with money expected to come through a levy on transfers.

The Premier League said it already has commitments to invest £1.6bn every three years in the wider game and communities, and said it wants a football-led resolution. The EFL said it will review the full proposal, including its possible benefits and implications for its 72 clubs, before further discussions with the Premier League and its own members.

The dispute dates back to the aftermath of the 2021 fan-led review, commissioned by the UK government after crises including the failed European Super League plan and Bury FC’s collapse. Government officials previously warned that a settlement could be imposed if the leagues failed to agree one. Representatives of the Premier League, EFL and the Independent Football Regulator met this week to discuss the outline of a deal.