The deal is to be finalised next week, reports say.

Earlier, it was rumoured that Mr. Gamage was attempting to acquire the CSN channel, which is said to be owned by the Rajapaksas.

Separate rumours also claimed that he was also attempting to acquire the newspapers - 'Rivira' and 'the Nation'.

Recently, the Kaduwela magistrate’s court issued an interim order banning the sale, lease or temporary transfer of the CSN sports channel.

Also, the management of 'Rivira' and 'the Nation' has also stated that they will not sell the newspapers.

Attempts to contact Minister Daya Gamage on this regard were unsuccessful.