A tentative agreement reportedly has been reached...

A tentative agreement reportedly has been reached to sell the New England Patriots to Paul Fireman, president of Reebok International, and a group of Philadelphia businessmen suing for control of the NFL team.

Negotiations were continuing to complete the sale of the financially troubled team, and a decision is expected soon. The three-way deal for the team reportedly includes Fireman, the Philadelphiaans, led by businessman Francis Murray, and current owner Billy Sullivan.

A proposal made by Fireman reportedly would have him and Murray as co-owners. Billy Sullivan would not be retained in any capacity, but his son, Patrick, would remain as general manager, at least for the immediate future.