ITV prepared to ‘triple’ Gary Lineker’s wages to lure him away from the BBC

ITV are prepared to make a huge offer

After he refused to make an apologetic statement on the show regarding his comments, the BBC made the decision to leave him off the show.

But now the rival broadcaster - who have been long-term admirers of Lineker - are willing to test the water and offer an eye-watering sum of money to convince the former England international to move.

A source close to the corporation said: "ITV will be excited by what is happening at the BBC – it’s the best chance they have had to get Gary."

Alongside that, Lineker would also be able to tweet freely and express his political views.

ITV have the broadcast rights to both the men’s and women’s World Cups, the Euros championships, the FA Cup and Champions League matches.

His younger son,  George, also hinted that his dad may be open to leaving the BBC.

A post he retweeted written by Spencer Morgan - the son of former Good Morning Britain host, Piers Morgan - said: "Just like Dad, Lineker refused to be forced into apologising for having his own opinion. I know how this story ends... in an enormous salary increase."

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