Premier League clubs today agreed to a voluntary ban on football shirt sponsorship by gambling companies.

The proposal, which will see front-of-shirt sponsorship by betting firms banned but sleeve deals still permitted, was agreed with 18 of the 20 clubs with two abstaining, sources have told The Times. It is understood the clubs supported the move in order to avoid government legislation banning it completely.

A government white paper on gambling is due to be published by the government within weeks but ministers have signalled it will not include shirt sponsorship restrictions if the voluntary agreement was reached.

A three-year transition period is expected to be included, something that is likely to be accepted by the government, in order for existing deals to be completed.