The English Premier League is considering introducing a winter break when the next television rights deal is agreed.

Talks have been ongoing for several months, and are understood to have been constructive.

A January break has been under discussion which, if agreed, would not impact on the traditional festive football schedule.

The English football association has previously said a winter break is not feasible until the end of the current television deal in 2019.

The top leagues in Germany, France, Italy and Spain all take time out in mid-season.