Ben Shephard has reportedly agreed a deal to present live football for Sky Sports.
The 35-year-old, who recently brought forward the date of his GMTV departure, is believed to have signed a contract worth up to £495,000-a-year.
Sky Sports will divide up this season's televised matches between Shephard and the channel's current main presenter Richard Keys, according to The Mirror.
A source said: “Whatever way you look at it, it’s a huge coup to get Ben Shephard onto the channel, and Sky will want value for money and to promote him wherever possible.
“He was one of the most-known faces on ITV broadcasting to millions of people every week. Many viewers may feel that Ben is ideal to take over from Richard when he decides to step down.”
Insiders say that Shephard will “definitely” front several Premiership matches and big-name Champions League games for Sky this season.
Sources are apparently hopeful that Shephard and Keys will "complement" each other, and are keen to insist that Keys is still an integral part of the presenting line-up.
A source added: “We have hundreds of matches every season and Ben’s remit will not encroach upon Richard’s.”
Shephard is thought to have impressed Sky bosses with his knowledge of sport during a number of meetings over the last few months.
An insider said: “They clearly have high hopes for him. He is a sports nut, in particular rugby and football. He sees his future in sport, not in daytime TV.”
Shephard will present his final edition of GMTV this Friday.
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