Gary Lineker is set to host a new ITV game show.
Gary Lineker
The 'Match of the Day' presenter is said to have signed a five-figure deal with BBC's rival broadcaster to front upcoming series 'Sitting on a Fortune'.
An insider told the Daily Star newspaper: “Gary filmed a pilot episode of 'Sitting on a Fortune' and it went really well, so execs have commissioned a full series.
"They think the show has the potential to be a big hit.”
Gary is said to have agreed to shoot six episodes later in 2021, and the programme is expected to get a primetime slot on ITV.
On the show, contestants will answer questions as they try to win a top prize jackpot of £100,000.
The source added: "The format is very entertaining. It will have viewers hooked.
"Gary is hoping he can be the next household name to become a successful game show host.”
The move comes after Piers Morgan previously joked that ITV "couldn't afford" to hire the retired footballer.
In November last year, the former 'Good Morning Britain' host - who was still on the show at the time - teased his friend after the pundit appeared on the ITV breakfast programme for the second time in nine days.
Bringing the interview to an end, he quipped: "Now we've established the pattern, we'll see you next Wednesday...
"You've obviously got nothing else to do at home, have you?"
Gary laughed, and suggested he could even take over from the broadcaster.
However, Piers replied: "Gary - they couldn't afford you!"
Much has been made of Gary's BBC salary, but this year he signed a new five-year contract and agreed to a £400,000 pay cut.
Director General Tim Davie commented: "Gary Lineker has signed up to a new five-year contract saving a quarter over his last contract."
Gary, whose latest deal keeps him at the BBC until 2025, added: "I love working with the BBC, and am very proud to continue to be a part of their outstanding football team."
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