Manny Pacquiao and Terence Crawford in discussions over Abu Dhabi fight in June - report

Filipino had stated in February that “big news is coming soon”

Manny Pacquiao celebrates his split decision victory over Keith Thurman in their WBA welterweight title fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena, AFP

Manny Pacquiao hugs Keith Thurman after winning their welterweight title fight by split decision. AP Photo

Manny Pacquiao celebrates after defeating Keith Thurman by split decision. AP Photo

Freddie Roach gives his instructions to Manny Pacquiao between rounds. AP Photo

Manny Pacquiao, right, and Keith Thurman exchange punches in the 10th round. AP Photo

Keith Thurman, left, and Manny Pacquiao exchange punches in the eighth round. AP Photo

Keith Thurman, right, throws a punch against Manny Pacquiao. AP Photo

Manny Pacquiao lands a shot against Keith Thurman during their WBA welterweight bout at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Reuters

Manny Pacquiao (R) connects with a punch on Keith Thurman during their WBA welterweight title fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena. AFP

Manny Pacquiao, right, and Keith Thurman exchange punches in the fifth round. AP Photo

Manny Pacquiao reacts after knocking down Keith Thurman in the first round. AP Photo

Manny Pacquiao, left, after kniocking down Keith Thurman in the first round. Reuters

Filipino star Manny Pacquiao and welterweight champion Terence Crawford are in talks over a fight in Abu Dhabi on June 5, The Athletic reported.

The report stated that "Top Rank has informed its network partner, ESPN, and pay-per-view distributor In Demand to hold June 5 for the potential fight it's exploring between Pacquiao and Crawford".

It added that "the structure of the deal is contingent on the fight taking place in Abu Dhabi".

The report comes after Pacquiao had started training in February ahead of his return to the ring, with the Filipino teasing that “big news is coming soon”.

The eight-division world champion, 42, has not fought in almost two years, when he defeated the previously unbeaten Keith Thurman on points in July 2019.

Pacquiao had been linked with a bout against IBF title-holder Errol Spence Jr, and even a crossover fight with UFC star Conor McGregor.

A sitting senator in the Philippines, Pacquiao had targeted a busy 2020 in boxing, but the coronavirus pandemic derailed those plans. He has since said he would look to fight twice this year, which would extend his professional CV to 73 professional bouts.

His split-decision victory against Thurman took his record to 62-7-2, with 39 wins coming via knockout.