IMG has already extended its deal with Chelsea TV and MP&Silva has agreed a deal in principle with Arsenal TV, with rights fees doubling in both cases. Similar increases are expected for Liverpool TV, for which bidding has already begun, and Manchester United TV, the rights for which will come on the market at the start of October.
Increased international revenues will be particularly crucial for the Arsenal and Liverpool club channels, which have been left with a significant financial shortfall following the collapse of UK pay-broadcaster Setanta.
For the full story see the next issue of TV Sports Markets.