The AFL could get a new team from a VERY surprising spot - as four bids are prepared to become the league's 20th side

Expansion in the AFL could happen quicker than many footy fans anticipate - and Canberra may end up being a shock choice as the league's 20th franchise.

With the Tasmanian Devils set to join the competition in 2028, the likes of Norwood in South Australia, the Northern Territory and a reported 'consortium out of Perth' are set to launch bids alongside the ACT.

The nation's capital already boasts fulltime sporting organisations in the Raiders (NRL) and Brumbies (Super Pacific Rugby) - and prominent figures behind the scenes are believed to be also eyeing off an AFL team long term.

Norwood - a powerful club who compete in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) - will host two AFL games during this weekend's Gather Round.

After their bid to join the AFL was overlooked in the 1990s, the 'Redlegs' believe they are now already.

They also have renowned local companies Wolf Blass and Coopers as their major sponsors.

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said he was aware about the club's interest in securing the 20th licence.

'They have got a great ground, great history and they are doing great stuff in the SANFL,' he said.

'I think a lot of people like the even numbers but there's nothing that says you have to [have 20 teams].

'What we [AFL] want to do, if we expand ... we want to do it in a sustainable way.'

Dillon also added the code's focus is ensuring the Tasmanian Devils are ready to hit the ground running before entering the competition.

It is understood the club already has a staggering 170,000 members.