The English Football League is set to pen a £5m deal with Jersey Mike’s – which will see the American fast-food chain sponsor the EFL Trophy ahead of its British invasion.Daily Mail Sport understands that officials are close to sealing a record, five-season partnership which will also see prize money increased for the competition, which was formerly known as the Vertu Trophy.The hope is to announce the deal before the next fixtures in this year’s midweek knockout tournament, which is open to all 48 League One and League Two clubs plus 16 invited under-21 academy sides from the Premier League.While relatively unknown on these shores, Jersey Mike’s is a staple across the United States and Canada, where there are 3,300 branches and an annual turnover of around $4.2bn.They are due to launch in the UK in the near future, with a first store set to open in London’s West End later this year. The aim is to bring 400 stores to the UK and Ireland.Industry experts believe the move will signal a war in the sandwich market with popular High St chain Subway. Luton Town manager Jack Wilshere celebrates winning the 2026 EFL Trophy last season Jersey Mike’s is a staple across the United States and Canada, where there are 3,300 branchesJersey Mike’s is famous for its Original Italian and Famous Philly and Big Kahuna Cheese Steak subs.It is thought clubs will benefit from an initial payment of £900,000 for this season, which raises over the term of the deal.Vertu are understood to have paid £800,000 in 2025-26 and an average of £720,000 over their three seasons as title sponsor.Sixteen Premier League clubs – including champions Arsenal – will take part in this season’s competition, which started in August. Manchester United, Bournemouth and promoted duo Coventry City and Hull City will not be involved.