If it can not reach an agreement with the Football League, then ITV Digital could be closed by its joint owners, Granada and Carlton Communications.
According to reports, which emerged earlier today, Carlton and Granada are still keen to reach an agreement with the league and keep their loss-making digital television service afloat.
An ITV Digital spokeswoman said: "Our focus absolutely remains and our priority remains to continue a dialogue with the Football League to find a workable solution to this situation."
While ITV Digital has already lost £800m, it is due to break even in 2003 and will remain an important tool in the ITV companies' fight against Rupert Murdoch and BSkyB.
Earlier this morning, Carlton and Granada denied press speculation that they could be forced to pay out £500m to the Football League and others if they go ahead and pull the plug on ITV Digital. Having sought legal advice, the broadcasters have insisted that they have no liability should ITV Digital and the Football League fail to agree a new deal.
The Football League, under the terms of the current deal, is owed £178m by ITV Digital, payable over two years. Carlton and Granada offered £50m, which was rejected by the league. It has been suggested that a figure of around £85m will satisfy the Football League.
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