ALBANY, N.Y. -- A deal to bring arena football back to Albany is close to being finalized, according to a source close to the situation.

The team is expected to be a part of the Arena Football League for the season beginning in the spring.

They would play in the Times Union Center.

Sources say negotiations include the Philadelphia Soul, an existing AFL team, and a group of local investors.

If the deal comes together, it’s unclear if the Philadelphia Soul would be part owners.

The TU was home to an AFL team, the Albany Firebirds, from 1990 to 2000.  They were a big draw during that time.

The team won the league’s championship in 1999. Ahead of the 2001 season though, the team relocated the Indianapolis.

They were replaced by the Albany Conquest, a lower level area team. They did not draw nearly as well.

This would be the first pro-sports team in the area since the Albany Devils hockey team left for Binghamton at the end of last season.

Our source says he feels good a deal will come together but there are still some sticking points.

Negotiations are expected to continue Saturday.

If a deal if finalized, a source says a formal announcement could come as early as next week.