Dundee's audacious bid to host Celtic in a ‘home’ Scottish Premiership game in the United States is likely to run into FIFA opposition — but will be considered by the SPFL Board.
The Dens Park club’s American owners have held preliminary talks with League bosses over an historic attempt to take a domestic competitive Scottish game to foreign soil for the first time ever.
And, while no formal application has been made, it is understood the Hampden authorities would consider sanctioning such a ground-breaking move.
Dundee, owned by Texan-based businessman Tim Keyes and business partner John Nelms after they took control of the club back in 2013, are keen on the radical idea which is being seen as a potential money-maker for both clubs.
Celtic, who have already started exploring the possibility of starting a franchise in the North American Soccer League, are seen as the obvious choice with their huge fanbase in the States.
There will, however, be the likely and sizeable hurdle of winning the approval of world governing body FIFA, who have consistently voiced their opposition to leagues moving games beyond their own country’s borders — scuppering the infamous ‘39th game’ proposal by the English Premier League.
A Dundee statement read: ‘We can confirm that Dundee Football Club and Celtic Football Club have had initial discussions about the possibility of playing a fixture in the United States of America. The proposal is very much is in its early stages and of course the relevant approvals would be sought from the SPFL Board at the appropriate time.
‘As a Club we are always looking to bring new ideas to the table and should this progress we firmly believe it will be a fantastic opportunity for Dundee, Celtic and Scottish Football as a whole.
‘We will be making no further comment on this matter at this time.’