Video technology could be tested next season in leading competitions in a number of countries after a decision by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to experiment with the technology.
Dutch and English football authorities are among associations who say the use of video replays could be tested in cup matches.
IFAB is proposing to experiment with video assistance for officials in key areas affecting a game such as contentious goals or penalty decisions.
The plans will go to a vote at IFAB's annual meeting in March.
IFAB secretary Lukas Brud told dpa the tests would show how best to use video technology - whether or not to have video monitored at the side of the pitch or perhaps in a van outside the stadium, and whether or not a match should be interrupted.
It is thought the trials would need to run for two or three years.
The Dutch football federation KNVB, which has been testing video evidence at games in an offline modus, said it plans to go online with it in domestic cup matches next season.
Around 25 games could be used for tests, KNVB director Gijs de Jong told NOS radio.
The Dutch, US Major League Soccer and the Brazilian federation have officially agreed to tests, Brud said.
England's FA chief executive Martin Glenn and his Scottish counterpart Stewart Regan also both said the technology could be tested in next season's FA Cup or Scottish Cup.
"We think it can be a real addition to the game, so obviously we would be available to be a part of that process, but let's make it a good experiment as opposed to trying to please everyone," Glenn said.
"We have to define the experiment that works, which kind of games, which kind of refereeing protocols, and if it's relevant to do something in England, we absolutely put our hand up."
Regan said: "It's one that we would certainly discuss as a board. As a personal preference, it's something I'd like to see push forward."
The German federation DFB is also thought to support video technology in principle. Its refereeing committee chairman Herbert Fandel said in November referees wanted to test the use of video replays.
The IFAB, which is responsible for the rules of the game, decided Thursday to recommend "live trials to begin as soon as the framework and timelines have been confirmed," pending approval at its members' meeting March 4-6 in Cardiff.
Video referees would be the latest step to make life easier for referees, three years after the IFAB approved the introduction of goalline technology which is used in big leagues and major tournaments such as the World Cup.
