Rugby: Bosses close on TV deal

English rugby union is hoping to conclude a new multi-million pound TV deal "in a matter of days" according to Howard Thomas, acting chief executive of Premier Rugby.

With the previous £87m five-year deal having expired he said talks were being conducted with a number of parties.

Sky TV appear the favourites to keep the contract.

Thomas said: "You have to balance the amount of money you receive with the amount of exposure the game gets.

"Satellite television has in the past offered the most money but things are a lot more diverse now than they were when we negotiated the last contract.

"One of the disappointments for me over the last few years has been the absence of a club highlights package programme."

He refused to name the parties involved or the amounts of money being discussed in talks but if Sky retain the main international and top club competition contract, it could still open the door for secondary rights and some club rugby on terrestrial television.

"There are so many aspects to consider," added Thomas.