Qualifying for the Champions League could undergo radical changes from the 2018-19 season, according to media reports in Italy.
Under proposals being considered by UEFA, teams who finish in the top three places in the domestic leagues in England, Spain, Italy and Germany would automatically qualify for the group stage of the competition.
Each of those countries would also be guaranteed a fourth place - however, the final club would be picked based on "historical achievements" rather than league standing.
The change means that the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, AC Milan, Juventus and Bayern Munich could always compete in the competition regardless of their domestic fortunes.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, France, Portugal and Russia would each have two secure places, with Ukraine, Belgium, Holland, Turkey and Switzerland each getting one spot.
A further five or six places would then be available for the 50 clubs entering the competition through the playoff system.
If approved, the changes would be introduced for the 2018-19 season, meaning that the race for the top four in the Premier League will become a race for the top three from 2017-18.
Neil Wilkes
