An expected deal over the future of European rugby is likely to see rival UK sports broadcasters BT and Sky agree to share coverage rights.
The Guardian reports that a deal to set up a new European Cup league is set to due to be agreed, with control of the game passing from from European Rugby Cup Ltd to the Six Nations committee.
According to the paper, the European Cup contest will include 20 teams – six from the Premiership and Top 14 and seven from the Pro 12.
A separate Challenge Cup will also feature 20 teams and a 3rd tournament featuring teams from “tier two nations” could also be created.
If agreed, the deal would end a two-year dispute over the European game’s future.
Both Sky and BT currently claim to have the rights to show European games, Sky under its contract with European Rugby Cup Ltd and BT under its contract with the English Premiership clubs.
In recent weeks senior figures at both broadcasters have indicated they’re likely to agree to split the coverage rather than embark on legal action to enforce their respective deals.