It is understood that several private equity firms have expressed interest in buying a stake in the Women’s Super League.

Companies including global investors Bridgepoint, who own the rights to MotoGP, have made an approach, reportedly for a large minority share.

The Premier League remains in talks over a potential WSL takeover.
Run by the Football Association, the WSL is England's top women's division with 12 full-time, professional teams.

An FA spokesperson said: “As the WSL continues to grow and thrive there is considerable commercial interest from a variety of sectors." Bridgepoint have been contacted for a response.

No WSL fixtures have been played since before the United Kingdom introduced social-distancing measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic in March.

Chelsea are the defending champions while Aston Villa have been promoted to the WSL after winning the second-tier title last season.

The new season is set to begin on the weekend of 5-6 September, in the second year of a three-year title sponsorship deal with Barclays.