Virgin 'close' to sports news channel deal

Virgin Media is likely to sign a deal in the next few weeks that will create a new sports news channel, according to Broadcast.

The new service is intended to replace Sky Sports News, which was axed from the cable operator's lineup earlier this year as part of a still-ongoing carriage dispute with Sky.

Virgin's sports channel could also appear on Sky as a direct rival to Sky Sports News, but whether Sky Sports News would return to Virgin - in the event of a resolve - is still up in the air. Malcolm Wall, CEO of Virgin's content division, said the broadcaster was "too far into the process not to go ahead with our own sports news channel".

The magazine says that Setanta Sports is the most likely partner for Virgin in its venture, although talks have been held with alternative sports specialists.