The Premier League are prepared to extend the season to the end of August to ensure the disrupted campaign is completed.
Having initially wanted the season completed by the end of July, Sportsmail understands top-flight officials have now discussed putting back that date - with August 22 understood to have been earmarked.
Top-flight bosses want to insert delay buffers into Project Restart's schedule to ensure the season is completed in the event of complications.
There is an acknowledgement behind the scenes that plans to finish the season could be delayed by positive tests or other problems.
And while the Premier League, who hope to have the season started by June 19, would prefer the season is completed before August 22 to reduce the impact on next season, they are willing to stretch to that date - which would leave a nine week period - to factor in any snags.
UEFA are hoping to play the Champions League final seven days later on August 29.
The possible August 22 climax date was revealed to players during a series of zoom calls at the end of last week. It has left players convinced that the season will be completed.
One of the only issues that could yet prevent the season from being completed is a major rebellion from players. While there are a significant number of players who are against returning, it is not thought that number would be enough to derail plans to relaunch the season.
A spate of positive tests during the season could also halt the plans.
But the fact the Premier League are now prepared to enter the penultimate week of August to finish the season makes completion all the more likely.
The 20 clubs will take the first major steps towards Project Restart by voting for a return to phase one of training at a meeting on Monday.
A number of clubs will test players and staff for the coronavirus on Monday with a view to returning to training on either Wednesday or Thursday.
Clubs have told their players their results should be available 24 hours after their tests.
With next season due to start on August 8, it is now looking certain that next season will start later than planned, potentially in mid-September.
beabdlnosy
0
whichever player doesn't want to play, just sack him, disgrace for a so called professional earning big money.
haiykuu
0
my 50th day on AF. thanks for everything
haiykuu
0
my 50th day at all football.AF thank you for everything.
ljik
1
Man city's players are the ones causing this problem because of the hatred they have for liverpool. all other players are ready and willing to return. if so PL should better award the title to Liverpool and end the 2019/2020 season
Typical rubbish statement by a delusional fan 😂
yaacdimruz
0
You want too award the title too Liverpool what about the top 4
we are at the fifth
yaacdimruz
0
lockdown doesn't need to ride united
yaacdimruz
0
no man united
yes United my fellow 👨 guy
SwazyRocky
2
Man city's players are the ones causing this problem because of the hatred they have for liverpool. all other players are ready and willing to return. if so PL should better award the title to Liverpool and end the 2019/2020 season
You want too award the title too Liverpool what about the top 4
Kewabeo
2
no man united
Remdklruy
2
come on why? I know covid but a bunch of players are becoming really inresponsible and doing a bunch of stupid stuff they would never do with the season going on
PappyKhally
0
This league go end in tear 😭 for some clubs😂😂😂
Muhbkrtz
2
Man city's players are the ones causing this problem because of the hatred they have for liverpool. all other players are ready and willing to return. if so PL should better award the title to Liverpool and end the 2019/2020 season
fiobemnstz
7
PL players resisting to returnon field but partying with models riding from here to there in lockdown... disgusting