The Premier League could introduce a winter break before 2022 after it emerged that they warned broadcasters about a potential change in schedule.
Both the Premier League and the FA are keen to bring schedules in England in line with the rest of the top European leagues, and the prospect of a winter break is referenced in tender documents for potential broadcast partners.
The results of the sale of the domestic TV rights between 2019 and 2022 will be announced next week.
Broadcasters — including Sky Sports and BT Sport, who both want to retain their existing live rights — have been told a winter break could be introduced after the FA Cup third round, which takes place on the first weekend of January.