EXCLUSIVE

Conor McGregor is one lucky scofflaw … because TMZ Sports has learned he’s on the verge of striking a deal in his New York City criminal case that will keep him in the U.S. and out of jail.

We’ve learned Conor’s lawyer is in the final stages of negotiating a plea deal in his felony mischief case … the case that was filed after the UFC champ unleashed his fury by hurling a dolly into a UFC bus, injuring 3 fighters. His target was UFC rival Khabib Nurmagomedov, who was not hurt.

Conor was charged with one count of felony criminal mischief and 3 counts of misdemeanor assault.

Sources familiar with the deal tell us, prosecutors have agreed to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor. That’s hugely significant because a felony involving violence could trigger permanent deportation from the U.S.

The Irish bad boy faced 7 years behind bars if convicted, but we’ve learned prosecutors are agreeable to probation … NO jail time.

The deal is not finalized, but we’re told negotiations are down to the “fine points.” If it doesn’t fall apart, the deal should be finalized in a matter of days, because Conor is due in a Manhattan court Thursday.

If the deal is finalized, it gives UFC Prez Dana White the wiggle room to avoid banning Conor from the UFC … something he’s done with other fighters.