Sky announce new Football League deal

Sky have announced a new three-year deal with the Football League worth £195 million.

The deal, which will take effect from the 2012/13 season, will see Sky claim exclusive rights to show 75 matches from across the Football League.

In terms of finances, the agreement represents a significant decrease from the current £264 million deal in place with both Sky and the BBC.

But due to 20% budget cuts, the BBC have decided not to challenge for broadcasting rights this time around.

Under the agreement Sky will also have the rights to air highlights, but the Football League is in discussions with other broadcasters with regards to free-to-air highlights.

Football League chairman Greg Clarke admitted the deal had been difficult to negotiate in the current financial climate.

“This has been a challenging climate in which to negotiate television rights, given the state of the economy and the lack of competitive tension in the sports broadcasting market,” he said.

“I am confident that our clubs will take heart from seeing such a significant ongoing investment in their competitions, despite a reduced level of broadcasting income, as it provides financial certainty in uncertain times.”