It is understood that Qatar - the nation that is scheduled to host the next Asian Cup in three years' time - is having second thoughts on hosting the event.

The matter is due to be discussed at a meeting in Kuala Lumpur between Qatari Football Association and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) officials on Monday.

The AFC has reportedly placed Australia at the top of their list of potential replacements for Qatar should the oil-rich nation relinquish the hosting role that they won unopposed eight months ago.

"Obviously, it would be an exciting opportunity for (Australian) football fans to experience the best of Asian football, which is going from strength to strength," Football Federation Australia chief executive Ben Buckley said.

"It would also be good for Australia. Playing a game that was invented in England, in a competition that is based in Asia, is a true intersection of our history and geography."

The FFA is also believed to be keen to bid for the right to stage the FIFA Club World Cup in either 2009 or 2010.

With the announcement of the 2018 World Cup host nation to be made in 2011, the FFA sees staging the 2011 Asian Cup as a perfect opportunity for Australia to showcase their ability to host the biggest tournament in the world.