The EFL has requested approximately £1 billion from the Premier League over five years as part of ongoing negotiations for a new revenue distribution agreement across English divisions.
According to Sky News, cited by Reuters, Premier League clubs were informed at a meeting on Thursday that the EFL is aiming to secure about £207 million annually over the next five years.
EFL wants increased funding
Negotiations between the Premier League and the EFL have been ongoing for some time, with the main topic being the redistribution of revenue from commercial and broadcasting rights between the top tier and clubs in the Championship, League One, and League Two.
Earlier this year, reports emerged that the Premier League had proposed directing £1.5 billion over ten years in addition to existing funding for lower divisions.
The EFL's new request suggests higher annual payouts, approximately £207 million each year.
Current EFL funding levels
According to Reuters, last season the Premier League allocated around £137 million to the three divisions managed by the EFL:
- Championship;
- League One;
- League Two.
Thus, the EFL's requested annual figure of £207 million would represent a significant boost in funding.
Negotiations continue
An EFL representative declined to comment, citing the ongoing nature of the talks.
Reuters also sought comment from the Premier League.
As of now, no final agreement has been reached. Therefore, the £1 billion figure stands as a demand from the EFL rather than an approved new financial deal.
Potential impacts on English football
A new revenue distribution model is crucial for the financial stability of clubs outside the Premier League. The Championship, League One, and League Two heavily rely on income and redistribution mechanisms from the top tier.
If an agreement is reached regarding annual payments of around £207 million, the funding for the EFL will increase compared to last season's levels.
