Premier League Warned Over Divide Between Rich, Poor Split In Wake Of TV Deal

A summit meeting of the 24 Championship clubs on Wednesday will "warn the Premier League that it risks permanently damaging the 'integrity of the Football League' by proposing a big hike in parachute money for clubs relegated from the top tier but only a modest rise in 'solidarity payments' for other clubs," according to Owen Gibson of the London GUARDIAN. Club chairs said that they could "ultimately turn their backs on the Premier League in protest," while others believe their recently introduced Financial Fair Play rules will become "completely unworkable" if the scheme goes ahead as planned. MPs have also warned of this being soaked up by a "culture of greed" at the top of the game as the Premier League finalizes a record £5.5B ($8.3B) in broadcasting income. Football League chairs will attempt to "persuade those clubs already in receipt of parachute payments to support a plan to recalibrate the offer so that the total is shared more equally." However, it is understood that the Premier League is" unlikely to unpick the deal" (GUARDIAN, 3/19).