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Football Federation Australia (FFA) has confirmed that set criteria for clubs bidding to be a part of an expanded A-League will be confirmed early next year.

With a number of clubs and consortia wanting to join an expanded A-League and FFA having committed to an enlarged competition, the Association will consider two aspects:  the financial viability of the proposed club, and how the club will benefit the A-League and the sport at large.

FFA executives are beginning negotiations for the league’s next broadcast deal which is due to begin for the start of the 2017/18 season but A-League expansion is thought unlikely to begin until season 2018/19 at the earliest.

Former National Soccer League clubs South Melbourne and Brisbane Strikers have each expressed an interest in joining an expanded A-League with South Melbourne pushing for entry into the competition from next season.

A Tasmanian consortium presented a bid to the FFA last week, although FFA is believed to hold concerns over whether Tasmania is appealing enough to broadcasters and if their proposed home ground, North Hobart Oval, is adequate. 

Previously there have been suggestions that bids may come from Canberra and from a Southern Sydney consortium backed by the Cronulla Sharks NRL team.

Speaking to AAP, an FFA spokesperson advised “FFA can confirm it has received a number of enquiries from consortia interested in FFA’s expansion plans for the Hyundai A-League.

“At this stage, FFA have advised any interested parties who have made contact that a framework for expansion will be completed early next year, which will allow them to submit expressions of interest in a framework which focuses on the viability of the proposed franchise and its ability to provide benefits to the A-League and the game.”

Head of A-League Greg O’Rourke has previously committed to expansion, saying he would like to see the competition grow to 16 teams.

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