The FFA board decided on Monday night to defer a decision on the franchise to join Melbourne Heart in 2010-11 until October.

It is believed the FFA held back to allow each bid to improve or clarify aspects of their respective applications.

Wollongong-bas ed South Coast Football Club is vying with three western Sydney bids plus syndicates from Canberra and Tasmania for the 12th licence.

The FFA is expected to plump for a western Sydney franchise, but de Gabriele declared the postponement a chance to form a joint venture with a rival bid.

"We believe we are not leading the race, but we are ready to take any opportunity that presents itself," de Gabriele said.

"I think we owe it to ourselves and the region's football fans to explore every opportunity we can.

"We need to explore the opportunities we have to bring A-League football to this region."

De Gabriele said he wouldn't approach other groups - but would listen if they came calling.

However, de Gabriele wanted FFA feedback on where the South Coast bid stood before negotiating with rival bids.

"After we talk with the FFA we can determine the best way forward," he said.

"If it (a joint venture) is something that would bring A-League football to this region, I would have an open dialogue with the other bidders."

The South Coast bid would play in western Sydney until WIN Stadium is upgraded.

Although WIN Stadium remains a barrier to Wollongong's inclusion, de Gabriele said his consortium had secured the $5 million needed to establish a franchise.

The South Coast club secured five Sydney-based groups to tip in $200,000 each year for the first five seasons.