The EFL Trophy is set for another name change, with Jersey Mike’s close to agreeing to a £5million, five‑year sponsorship deal.The deal, expected to be confirmed by all parties soon, would increase prize money for competing clubs and serve to promote the US chain as it begins its UK launch.
The competition features all 48 League One and League Two clubs plus 16 invited Premier League Under‑21 sides. It was most recently known as the Vertu Trophy, with that agreement ending after the 2025/26 season.
Jersey Mike’s, well established in the US and Canada with more than 3,000 outlets, plans to open its first UK store in London later this year and hopes to expand across Britain and Ireland. The sponsorship would give the company a strong platform as it enters the market.
The tournament has had numerous sponsors since the 1980s, including Freight Rover, Sherpa Vans, Leyland DAF, Autoglass, LDV Vans, Johnstone’s Paint, Checkatrade, Leasing.com, Papa John's, Bristol Street Motors and Vertu.
Clubs are expected to receive around £900,000 this season as part of the new agreement.