Iniesta, who turns 34 on Friday, will leave Barcelona at the end of the season and look to play outside Europe, with rumours linking him with China, Japan and Australia.

Given the A-League's lack of financial clout it appears unlikely it could compete with other Asian leagues, but the FFA's $3 million guest fund is likely to be utilised.

"The message we received from the fans is they love seeing big overseas stars in the A-League," Gallop said.

"Of course, the game has many mouths to feed and that will require a significant investment, primarily from one of our clubs, but we've got some funds available.

"If we can contribute, it would be a contribution not the bulk of what he could earn, then we think it's money well spent.

"How we spend that, do we spend that on one player? Do we spend it on several players? I think we saw in the Del Piero/Heskey/Ono year, there is value in having a number of stars if we can do it.

"But it's early doors and we have to see how it plays out."

Gallop said the FFA's push for more marquee names was one part of their overall new approach to marketing the A-League.

"It's an element," he said. "We've already announced a later start to the season, observing FIFA windows, there'll be more emphasis around the marketing of the A-League.

"That's a collective responsibility, not just from FFA. It needs to be something we do with the clubs. It's the start of trying to re-energise the league."

Gallop also hinted that A-League clubs had shown interest in Barca and Spain legend Iniesta.

"I won't name who but i do understand A-League clubs have expressed interest," he said.

"That's a start. He'll have offers from around the world. The A-League offers a great competition ot play in, it also offers Australia's lifestyle.

"We saw with Del Piero and others that that is an attraction."