Burton chairman Ben Robinson believes Championship rebels risk destroying smaller clubs as they demand more TV money
Sky will withdraw their £590million five-year deal to the EFL if clubs don't agree to their offer
CHAMPIONSHIP rebels have been warned they risk destroying smaller clubs with their demands for more TV cash.
Broadcasters Sky are ready to withdraw their £590million, five-year offer to the EFL if it is not accepted by tomorrow’s 4pm deadline.
Leeds and Derby lead the 15 clubs who are refusing to agree to the new contract, which is worth up to 27 per cent more than their old deal.
And Burton chairman Ben Robinson fears clubs in Leagues One and Two could go out of business if the TV cash tap is turned off.
Robinson warned: “If this deal is not signed it will undermine the stability of so many clubs who do not have seriously rich owners or investors.
“Maintaining our great competition should be the most important aspect.
“But if this deal goes, a number of the clubs in League One and League Two will not be able to compete at that level.
“They would drop down the pyramid and that would damage football.”
Sky’s offer would give Championship clubs £2.96m per season, up from £2.33m. That is a 27 per cent hike.
League One clubs stand to earn £884,000, up 25 per cent, with teams in League Two getting a 26 per cent rise to £613,000 per year from £492,000.
The rebels are eyeing a breakaway league, with Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani arguing: “We need to consider another way that can be sustainable, even for teams who are not promoted.”
Radrizzani and Derby owner Mel Morris believe Sky can be forced back to the negotiating table.
But the broadcaster is understood to be serious about the threat to walk away — leaving the EFL clubs with nowhere to go.
Sky withdrew from negotiations over Spain’s La Liga and golf’s final Major, the USPGA, as well as the European Rugby Cup.
One insider added: “I don’t know where the 15 clubs think they can go.
“The Premier League will not have them and the FA will not give the green light for a breakaway league either.
“Sky have spent the past 14 months drafting the contract. They will only come back with a lower offer next time.”