Transfer Deadline Day: What You Need to Know
The summer transfer window is set to close on Friday, and Premier League clubs have already spent over £1.7bn. However, this figure is £600m less than what was spent in 2023. As the deadline approaches, here is everything you need to know.
1. What time does the window close?
The transfer window will close at 23:00 BST on Friday for the Premier League, English Football League, and in Scotland. In Europe, the Bundesliga window will close at 19:00, Ligue 1 at 22:00, and in Serie A and La Liga, it is 23:00 BST. The Women’s Super League transfer window remains open until 23:00 BST on 13 September.
2. What happens if deals are not confirmed before the deadline?
Deals are often not straightforward and may not be completed until the last minute. In such cases, it can be challenging for clubs to finalize everything and submit the required documentation by the deadline. To address this, clubs can use a deal sheet to confirm that an agreement has been reached. This allows them additional time, until 01:00 BST, to submit the remaining paperwork.
3. What are the big moves that could happen?
Several potential big moves are being discussed. Ivan Toney of Brentford has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, with a £35m bid from Al-Ahli rejected by the Bees. Raheem Sterling, who has been told he has no future at Chelsea, may also make a move before the window closes. Interest in the forward has been shown by Aston Villa and Manchester United. Jadon Sancho, who has not played for Manchester United in the Premier League this season, is another player who could be on the move, with Paris St-Germain being linked with him. Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace has also impressed and has caught the eye of Newcastle, who have had four bids rejected for him.
4. Why is spending down compared to 2023?
The current spending is lower compared to 2023, and unless clubs spend extravagantly on Friday, it is unlikely to break the record £2.3bn spent last year. Experts attribute this decrease to compliance with profit and sustainability rules (PSR). Clubs are limited in the amount they can lose over a three-year period, with the maximum being £105m, and even less if they have spent time in the Championship.
5. How can I follow transfer deadline day on the BBC?
From 07:00 on Friday, the BBC will have a dedicated page for all the latest transfer news, reaction, and analysis. Regular updates will also be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and across BBC Sport’s social media channels. The confirmed transfers will be listed on the BBC’s dedicated page.
The transfer deadline day is always an exciting time for football fans, as they eagerly await the final moves and deals that could shape their team’s season. With clubs looking to finalize their squads for the rest of the year, the deadline day promises to be full of surprises and last-minute negotiations. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and breaking news on the BBC’s coverage of transfer deadline day.