Football Association chiefs are expected to confirm plans for a winter break in the Premier League within the next two weeks.
The mid-season break will be in place for the 2019-20 campaign onwards, giving top-flight teams at least 13 days off.
In a statement FA chief executive Martin Glenn said, “We’re working closer and more collaboratively with the professional game than at any time in recent years,Very soon this will pay dividends with the creation of a mid-season break, which is a much needed improvement for our clubs and England teams.”
The entire FA Cup fifth round will be played in midweek in early February as part of the proposed winter break, while league fixtures will be staggered to ensure that all teams have two weeks off.
Germany, Spain, Italy and France already have mid-season breaks.