Thompson says Wrigley still under discussion, no deal imminent

The proposed sale of Wrigley Field to an Illinois stadium agency is still on hold as the two sides negotiate.

Former Governor James Thompson gave a brief update on the stalemate in a phone interview as talks over a much-discussed deal drag toward the four-month mark. Thompson heads the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority.

Thompson says the agency and Tribune Company are still negotiating but there's no agreement yet. He says the two sides have exchanged views - not formal offers. And he says he has no idea if any deal they agree to would ultimately gain approval from city and state officials.

Thompson has characterized the hoped-for transaction as a tough sell politically due to the high cost of renovations at the 94-year-old ballpark and other issues.

Tribune executive Crane Kenney says there's "nothing to report."