Promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that he is "more confident than ever" that a super-bantamweight showdown between Scott Quigg and Carl Frampton will take place next year.
On Thursday, reports suggested that a deal had been agreed between the two camps, but despite insisting that there is still work to do, Hearn has indicated that an official announcement could be made next week.
Hearn told Sky Sports News: "We've agreed the bulk of the deal. We are now just finalising a few minor points, but I am confident the fans will get the news they so desperately want next week.
"I've seen plenty of reports saying the deal has been done, but until the ink is dry a huge fight like this is never over the line.
"I'm more confident than ever that this massive unification fight will take place early next year."
A date of February 27 has been suggested for the fight between the holder of the WBA regular title and the IBF champion to take place in Manchester.