A new UEFA rule would give Chelsea the option to choose between the Champions League and Europa League.
The Blues are currently fighting to qualify for the Champions League via finishing in the Premier League top five.
But they dont have to take their spot even if they finish due to a UEFA rule, which would become relevant should they win the Europa Conference League.
Enzo Marescas side still sit within the top five but are only ahead of Aston Villa on goal difference, with Nottingham Forest also just one point worse off in seventh.
Chelsea will hope they can retain their place in the table with fixtures against Manchester United and Forest to come. But even if they do, they could find themselves with a degree of flexibility.