Clubs in the Premier League and Championship have been asked for expressions of interest in trialling safe standing this season.
This means Leeds United could potentially introduce a standing area if they declare interest in helping carry out the trial.
Grounds in the top two tiers of football in England and Wales have been legally required to be all-seaters since 1994, but the Conservatives outlined their intention to work towards the introduction safe standing in their 2019 general election manifesto.
Legislation banning standing was introduced in the wake of the Hillsborough disaster but rules could soon change and clubs will be able to offer safe standing from January 1 if they join the pilot programme.
Clubs have until October 6 to apply to partake in the pilot and if they join, will be given a licence to have a standing area from New Year's Day until the end of the 2021/22 campaign.
As reported by Sky Sports, Sports minister Nigel Huddleston said: "We have been clear that we will work with fans and clubs towards introducing safe standing at football grounds providing there was evidence that installing seating with barriers would have a positive impact on crowd safety.
"With independent research now complete, and capacity crowds back at grounds across the country, now is the right time to make progress. I look forward to hearing from clubs who wish to be part of our early adopters programme during the second half of this season."
The Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA) are now be putting plans in place for Premier League and Championship clubs to help put plans for the introduction of safe standing into action.
Rail seats were introduced in 2018 and have been offered by Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Wolves.
The BBC have claimed Manchester United and Wolves are 'likely' to apply to be part of the safe standing scheme.
