Under 20s sides of Scotland's biggest clubs could be introduced into the professional league setup.

The Scottish Professional Football League has launched a consultation with its 42 members to judge the mood for so-called "colt" sides being admitted.

The move comes as the Scottish FA moves towards implementing its "Project Brave" youth development strategy in 2018, which called for the move to be considered.

Under 20s teams drawn from Scottish Premiership sides took part in the 2016/17 Scottish Challenge Cup and will do so again in the 2017/18 season.

A statement from the SPFL read: "As part of wider discussions regarding the production and development of elite young players in Scotland, particularly in the 17-21 age bracket, the SPFL is consulting with all member clubs to seek views in relation to the potential introduction of colt teams to the league pyramid.

"This consultation exercise was discussed and approved by the SPFL's Competitions Working Group comprising representatives across all four League divisions.

"Clubs have been invited to respond with their views and once feedback has been assessed, the SPFL Board will consider next steps in relation to the potential for colt teams to be involved in the professional football pyramid."