The FA Cup is set to be broadcast exclusively on free-to-air television for an extended period for the first time since the late 1980s, with ITV close to joining the BBC as rights holders.

In a boost for the tournament before Saturday’s final between Manchester City and Watford at Wembley, which will be shown on BBC and BT Sport, it is understood that ITV is close to an agreement with the FA over a four-year package from the start of the 2021-22 season. It will guarantee larger television audiences for the oldest cup competition in the world.

FA Cup viewing figures on the BBC have been particularly impressive this season even during the early stages of the competition, with 7.6 million watching Manchester United’s fourth-round