HBO has narrowed the bidders for the off-network run of its hit mob drama “The Sopranos” to A&E and TNT.

Numerous cable networks, including FX, Spike TV, Lifetime and USA, have eyed the syndication rights to the series, which is expected to fetch around $2.3 million per episode, sources said.

It is unclear whether the deal will be exclusive or a weekend broadcast syndication window will be made available to local stations. The off-HBO run is expected to launch in fall 2006, after the final season of “The Sopranos” has concluded on HBO.

Spokespeople for HBO, A&E and TNT declined comment.