Fresh twist in Match of the Day host saga as BBC aim to convince Roman Kemp to take up brand-new role on iconic highlights show after Gary Lineker exit

According to The Sun, in a bold move to bring fresh energy and a digital-forward approach to Match of the Day, the BBC is in discussions with Kemp to take charge of a brand new role. After a storied 25-year career, Lineker announced his departure as MotD host, and the network leadership is already drawing up a fresh blueprint keeping in mind the evolution of the digital landscape.

Alex Kay-Jelski, a senior executive at BBC Sport, has been instrumental in shaping this new vision as the BBC strives to adapt to evolving viewing trends and he sees Kemp as an ideal candidate to usher the network into its next era. There is a strong push to expand the program’s digital presence, with Kemp’s strong online following and expertise in engaging younger audiences serving as major incentives.

The Sun has quoted a source saying: "Match Of The Day is moving with the times and next season there will be more of a focus on digital highlights. Alex has been speaking with Roman about possibly coming on board and how it could work. Roman has a massive following online and is hugely popular with a younger audience thanks to his years hosting the Breakfast Show on Capital FM. He is also a huge Arsenal fan and knows what he is talking about when it comes to football. It is very much in the early stages but Match Of The Day is coming into a new digital age and Alex would love to have Roman front and centre.”

As Lineker's departure became evident, the BBC considered other candidates to lead the iconic show, including MOTD2 host Mark Chapman, who was approached for a potential shared co-hosting arrangement with rising star Kelly Somers. However, Chapman reportedly declined the offer, prompting the network to explore other talent.

While Match of the Day will see new leadership, Lineker is not stepping away from the BBC entirely. The 63-year-old will continue to anchor the show until the end of the season and remain a fixture on the network through various projects. He is set to host Match of the Day’s coverage of the FA Cup in 2025 and 2026 and is expected to be the face of BBC during the 2026 World Cup. Additionally, he will retain his role as host of the MOTD Top Ten podcast, while the network is also adding his popular The Rest is Football podcast to BBC Sounds.