Gary Lineker's future as Match of the Day presenter to be decided as ex-England striker opens contract talks with BBC

Lineker, who has been associated with the broadcaster since 1999, is all set to meet the executives of the channel to discuss a new multi-year deal, according to The Sun. The former Three Lions star's current contract expires at the end of the 2024-25 season.

The report further claims that Lineker has volunteered to take a pay cut as he could agree to stay with the BBC for £1 million a year from the upcoming campaign, which is £350,000 per annum less than what he pockets currently. The 63-year-old is likely to put pen to paper on either a two or three-year deal.

A source close to the development told The Sun: "Gary is hugely popular with both fans and players alike. The sense is that, with so much uncertainty and scandal at the BBC, right now viewers are crying out for a safe pair of hands. Gary adores the BBC, and loves his job, and recognises what an honour it is to host television’s flagship football show, as well as international games.

"Gary has long maintained that the BBC provides excellent value for money - and has quite literally put his money where his mouth is, and offered to take a substantial pay cut."

Lineker was earlier tipped to join ITV after his BBC deal expires next summer, but the switch looks unlikely now. The BBC had earlier considered replacing the England legend with former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas, but he was sacked last month due to "issues relating to workplace behaviour".