The Football Federation Australia (FFA) say they're open to the idea of a second A-League team in Brisbane after Miron Bleiberg's revelations that a local consortium is preparing to put forward a bid.
The former coach of Brisbane Roar and the now-defunct Gold Coast United, Bleiberg claims to be part of a group that is serious about bankrolling another franchise in south-east Queensland and is ready to act, now that expansion is firmly back on the A-League agenda.
"I'm not authorised to speak on their behalf, but I can tell you there is movement," Bleiberg said.
"There is a group of local people, they are capable, they have the money, most importantly they love the game, and they are ready."
Greg O'Rourke, the head of the A-League, indicated in a written statement that FFA is willing to listen.
"Football Federation Australia has previously announced it is actively looking at expansion across its existing footprint in Australia and New Zealand," he said.
"While no specific areas have been identified for expansion, FFA is certainly open to the possibility of another club in Queensland as one of the options. Considering the recent hype and interest of the derbies in both Sydney and Melbourne, we can see the excitement a derby match generates.
"We have previously heard Miron quoted that he had a consortium who would be interested in investing in a second Queensland team, however no official approach has been made to FFA from this consortium."
It's a distinct change of tack from O'Rourke, who said in August that Bleiberg's plan for a second team in Brisbane would be "lunacy" given the continued off-field struggles of Brisbane Roar.
Bleiberg believes competition would force the Roar to clean up their act and, as a wealthy businessman in his own right outside of football, is even prepared to put in some of his own money to make it happen.