Gary Lineker 'makes final decision' over Match of the Day future amid successor claims

Gary Lineker has reportedly reached a decision over his future on Match of the Day.

The 63-year-old has fronted BBC's flagship football highlights programme since 1999 after replacing Des Lynam.

Amid bringing up 25 years as the host of MOTD, Lineker has often dropped hints about his future on the show in recent years.

And The Times claimed last week that fellow BBC presenter Mark Chapman - who will co-host the BBC's new Champions League highlights show - was now in line to replace Lineker as host when the England legend decides to step away from his role

The Leicester and Tottenham icon wasn't offered a role on the show, according to The Telegraph, though this was believed to be mainly due to his busy schedule and the fact that the show is being recorded in Salford, with the 63-year-old living in west London.

That comes after Jermaine Jenas, whom Lineker once described as his 'natural successor', was sacked by the BBC following allegations of inappropriate behaviour.

But Lineker seemingly has no plans to step away from Match of the Day just yet, according to The Sun.

It is claimed that he will enter talks with the BBC next month over a new contract with the corporation, which is expected to be between two and three years in length.

Getty

While there appear to be no guarantees that an agreement will be reached, it indicates that Lineker is at least willing to stay on as MOTD host and continue his 25-year tenure.

A source told The Sun: "Gary is hugely popular with both fans and players alike.

"The sense is that, with so much uncertainty and scandal at the BBC, right now viewers are crying out for a safe pair of hands.

"Gary adores the BBC, and loves his job, and recognises what an honour it is to host television's flagship football show as well as international games."