Premier League pushing to agree deal that would see all EFL clubs paid more

EFL clubs were presented with the latest offer for a 10-year financial deal last week following talks between executives from the two leagues.

The Premier League would provide an additional £163million per year in solidarity payments by 2028/29, including £81m more in the current season.

However, the increased funding would come with conditions attached.

The EFL would be required to reach new agreements over cost controls, while the Carabao Cup semi-finals would be reduced to one leg rather than two.

The leagues would also have to agree a shared position on the Saturday 3pm blackout legislation before the next round of domestic television deals.

Premier League clubs discussed the situation when they met in London on Thursday for their first shareholders' meeting since the start of the season.

Afterwards, the league reiterated its intention to reach an agreement quickly.

“Since a fair and generous proposal was formally offered to the EFL last month, discussions have continued between the leagues’ executives, and it was presented to EFL clubs last week,” a Premier League statement read.

“The Premier League remains committed to concluding a football-led solution as soon as possible so additional money can flow to EFL clubs this season.”

Failure to reach that “football-led solution” could ultimately lead to intervention from the Independent Football Regulator.

Either league has the ability to trigger the regulator's ‘backstop’ powers and ask it to impose a financial settlement.

The IFR is set to publish its ‘State of the Game’ review within the next few weeks, setting out its assessment of the financial health of English football.

Some believe its findings could strengthen the EFL's position in negotiations, but the eventual outcome would be difficult to predict.

EFL executives are understood to have warned clubs that triggering the backstop could result in a wait of up to two years for a new agreement.

There was no indication following Thursday's meeting that Premier League clubs viewed the forthcoming review as a deadline for reaching agreement.

EFL clubs have now been asked to submit feedback on the offer before further meetings take place early next month.

The EFL declined to comment while discussions continue.