Magnier close to peace deal with Fergie

THE ACRIMONIOUS dispute between Alex Ferguson and John Magnier over record-breaking stallion Rock of Gibraltar is nearing its conclusion.

While the pairs legal teams are yet to fully conclude a deal, it is understood that one of the longest sporting sagas in living memory is imminent.

Precise details of the agreement remain sketchy but it is believed that the final settlement will fall somewhere between Magnier's initial offer of two nominations per year, worth an estimated £1.5million and the £5million deal that has been suggested in other quarters.