Gary Lineker had no choice but to take a pay cut, a BBC insider has claimed, after the Match of the Day host said he offered to trim his £1.75million salary.
The footie pundit, 58, said this week he is in talks with BBC bosses to lower his salary and was happy to earn less.
Gary said: “It’s the right thing to do. I’m currently negotiating a new contract with them and I’m volunteering to take less.”
His announcement comes after a backlash against the TV licence for over-75s being axed.
But according to BBC insiders in line with other top earners he would not have been offered a renewal at the same pay level, The Sun reported.
A source said: “Gary’s deal is up for renewal and that process is ongoing, but the BBC are clear that top earners will have to take cuts and he is no exception.
“The pressure to make savings is intense. It isn’t an option not to take a hit in the current climate.”
Although his wage is getting slashed, Gary is likely to remain the BBC’s highest paid star
An insider added: “Hopefully a deal will be struck soon.”
The former England captain is believed to be worth around £30million.
He took a £500,000 drop in 2013 to continue in the role.
Lineker has been the BBC’s highest earner for the past two years.
dailystar.co.uk
