Hong Kong's First Division is likely to have eight teams as the Hong Kong Football Association demands a joining fee from clubs wanting to join the elite division.
The HKFA council last night decided to ask for $500,000 from the Second Division sides who want to join the top flight next season.
For Third Division teams looking to make the giant leap to the First Division a fee of $500,000 will be imposed for the first season and $300,000 for the second.
Newly-promoted Second Division teams China Fortune, Yee Hope and Sai Kung Friends have stated they would not pursue a senior division spot if required to pay a fee.
HKFA chairman Stewart Lee Leung-nang said last night that the number of the First Division teams next season would be reduced from 10 to eight, but applications would also be considered from junior clubs.
'All interested teams should submit their application on or before July 12. They must be professional and they are required to pay the joining fee,' said Lee.
