Umbro, the maker of the England football team's kit, has agreed to
be bought by US sportswear giant Nike in a deal worth £285m
($580m).
Nike said the deal would allow it to "significantly expand" its
presence in "a key growth category" for the firm.
As well as providing kit for the England team, Umbro also supplies
the kit for six Premier League clubs.
The Football Association said Nike had assured it that the FA's
relationship with Umbro would be protected.
Manchester-based Umbro said last month that sales of England tops
had been "disappointing ", and analysts are concerned that sales
could suffer if England fail to qualify for next year's European
Championship.
Brian Barwick, the chief executive of the FA, said: "We are
delighted that the proposed acquisition will allow us to continue
our strong historical relationship with Umbro while benefiting from
the marketing expertise and financial strength of Nike."
"Nike has provided firm assurances that the FA relationship with
Umbro will be protected and enhanced, and we look forward to
working closely with both companies moving forward," Mr Barwick
added.
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE CLUBS WITH UMBRO
KIT
Birmingham
Blackburn
Everton
Sunderland
West Ham
Wigan
