NFL lockout drama nears close

The NFL Players Association and the league have reached an agreement on a new labour deal, signalling an end to a four-month lockout saga.

Negotiators for the two parties agreed to the terms of a new deal on Monday, with official confirmation of an end to the lockout set to follow.

A report on the league’s official website said: “The league’s 32 player representatives and then all of its players still must vote to approve it.”

“But at this point it appears a formality.”

If the players accept the deal on Monday, free-agent signing could begin as soon as this week.

The new deal is expected to run for 10 years and players are likely to recertify the NFLPA as a union.

The lockout began in March after players and the NFL disputed a host of issues, including how to divide the league’s revenue, free agency rules and retirement benefits.

The annual Hall of Fame game scheduled for August 7 has already been cancelled.

The new season is set to begin on September 8.