International agency Sportfive has guaranteed the Scottish Premier League US$15 million in television fees in a new deal.

The company will handle global sales of the league's broadcast rights for the next five years, continuing their existing partnership.

"Sportfive has proven to be a professional, reliable and successful partner. This deal secures, and should increase, our international reach," said Lex Gold, executive chairman of the SPL. "At a time of economic difficulty we are delighted to do a deal that will bring in over £10 million (US$15 million) for our clubs between now and 2014."

The SPL is the top tier of Scottish soccer, and is dominated by the giant Glasgow clubs Celtic and Rangers. Recent weeks have seen renewed speculation that the two clubs could be invited to join the English Premier League.

Walter Böhm, vice president TV & Media Rights at Sportfive, said: "The attraction of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League and its fan base is evident in the worldwide exposure figures. The league is being broadcast in over 150 countries covering all continents and we are proud to continue our partnership with the SPL and further assist in developing the brand and enhancing international penetration."