The A-League salary cap is set to be bolstered for next season to help clubs hang on to their best talent.

A progression in talks for a new pay deal between Football Federation Australia (FFA) and the players union, Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), means A-League clubs can expect relaxed restrictions around player payments as soon as next season.

A FFA spokesperson said they have tabled “long-term loyalty payment” concessions in salary cap reforms, with hopes that a deal will be signed soon.

After a season marred by Perth Glory’s egregious breach, a rise in the cap will be welcomed by players and clubs looking to push for honours.

The changes could benefit long-serving Melbourne Victory man Archie Thompson, who on Tuesday said he could leave the club after 10 seasons unless a suitable new deal was tabled.

Cap concessions to clubs that bring new talent through youth systems, for example Terry Antonis at Sydney FC, could also enhance the league.

Source: AAP