Gary Lineker has confirmed that he is currently in talks with the BBC regarding a new contract as his tenure on the iconic football highlights show, *Match of the Day*, approaches its end next summer. This comes in the wake of swirling rumors about his future, ignited by an alleged leaked email suggesting that the corporation was preparing to announce his exit.

During a lively exchange with fellow football pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards on their podcast, *The Rest Is Football*, Lineker stated, "I'm coming to the end of my contract in the summer," indicating that it is only natural for negotiations to begin. He expressed surprise at how the situation escalated, saying, "So I don’t know why it all spiraled out of control."

In a humorous twist, Micah Richards joked about his odds of becoming Lineker's successor, claiming he was a surprising 4-to-1 with bookmakers to take over the hosting duties. Alan Shearer followed suit with a mock concern, stating he "wouldn't be signing a new contract" if Micah took the helm. Lineker responded with a chuckle, expressing confidence in Micah's ability: "I’d love to see you take over, Micah; I think you’d be brilliant in the chair."

The rumors intensified after the Daily Mail reported an email leak indicating that BBC's director of sport was deliberating on Lineker's departure. However, a spokesperson for the BBC quickly denied these claims, stating, "We have nothing to announce, and we have not agreed next steps with regard to his contract. He is on contract until the end of the season."

Earlier this year, Lineker expressed his continued passion for his role, while also contemplating the shifting dynamics in football broadcasting. He mentioned, "Obviously it's another change in football and television and the rights of the Premier League and stuff like that. All of these things will play a part." Reflecting on his over two-decade tenure as host, he added, “It's been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old!"

Lineker, a former England striker, has been the face of *Match of the Day* since 1999, taking over from Des Lynam, and drawing a salary of £1.3 million a year. As discussions about the future of football broadcasting continue, fans and pundits alike are left wondering what the next chapter holds for one of the sport's most recognizable figures. Will he stay, or will this be the end of an era? Stay tuned for updates!