The Uruguayan ace has lit up the competition this season, scoring an unprecedented 23 goals to help City to a top-four finish for the first time.

His season has merited a new deal and City have delivered, reportedly tabling a fresh contract to elevate his pay packet to marquee status.

Whether that's enough to keep the former Panathinaikos and Sampdoria ace in Australia is yet to be seen.

Either way, league chiefs won't be tipping in.

The creation of a 'marquee fund' was the centrepiece of a FFA strategic plan unveiled in February, designed to boost the A-League's star power.

But Melbourne City - or any other clubs - can't access it to help retain stars like Fornaroli that shoot to stardom once they've landed in Australia.

A-League chief Damien de Bohun said the multi-million dollar pot was for attracting new players with the biggest of names only.

"Bruno has been unbelievable, fantastic for the A-League this year," he said.

"He's a player we absolutely want to keep in the league and I'm sure Melbourne City do too.

"But the marquee fund is for global superstars."

The club's other marquee, Australia international Aaron Mooy, has his own future up in the air.

He is understood to be interested in returning to Europe at season's end, but has a lucrative deal with City should he decide to stay.

With Fornaroli yet to confirm his own future, it could mean both of City's marquee roles are filled - or vacant - for next season.

Late last year, Frank Lowy used his departure as long-serving FFA chairman to barb the newly cashed-up expansion club, telling them to invest in elite-level talent.

A four-game stint from Spain FIFA World Cup winner David Villa, now with sister club New York City, is as close as Melbourne City have come to date.

John van't Schip's side agreed to release their last international marquee, Robi Koren, from his contract early, so poor was his performance.

Should they decide to bring in a superstar like Villa on a longer deal, FFA is all ears.

"A club like Melbourne City that has the resources and the network to bring in someone who is a global superstar, the marquee fund may well be perfect for them," De Bohun said.

City host Perth Glory on Sunday afternoon in the club's first home final.