The EFL has confirmed that Premier League B teams and 'clubs from non-English leagues' will not be introduced into the Football League structure amid attempts to restructure English football, reports the London Evening Standard.
Plans had been initially floated to allow Premier League clubs to enter B teams into the Football League structure - similar to the model in Spain - but the EFL says that route has been collectively ruled out by the organisation and the 72 clubs it represents.
The EFL released a statement on Thursday afternoon which read: "Following a meeting of its clubs on 22 September, the EFL confirmed that the inclusion of Premier League B Teams, clubs from non-English leagues or those outside the English football pyramid will not form part of any ongoing discussions for the 'Whole Game Solution'.
EFL Chief Executive Shaun Harvey said: "At the very outset of this process it was made clear that any decisions in respect of the future direction of the Whole Game Solution would be taken by clubs themselves and our announcement today comes as a result of their valued input.
"I am extremely grateful for their candour and support during the first part of this consultation that will ultimately help shape a final proposal for voting on in June next year.
"The logical place for many was to source the additional teams for League Three from the National League but we felt it important that the debate was introduced at an early stage and an opportunity was provided for all Club owners' and executives' to voice any opinions and, where applicable, table concerns.
"We will now continue our consultation with the National League with a little more certainty as to what any change could mean for them. These conversations will include the FA in their capacity as the Governing Body not a competition organiser.
"In addition, our dialogue will continue with the Premier League as we focus on ensuring we achieve our specific and primary objective of improving distributable revenue to our clubs and reaching a format that benefits the EFL, its competitions and the wider professional game.
"The next round of consultation will also see us undertake some work with fan groups and other stakeholders to ensure that those people who are invested in the future our game are given an opportunity to register their views."
