Reports | Premier League could scrap early transfer window closure
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Premier League clubs are on the verge of voting for a realignment of the transfer window with the rest of Europe. It is believed that at least three clubs who called for the window to close early two seasons ago are now demanding a re-vote, as they believe that it puts them at a disadvantage.
Two years ago, 14 clubs were in favour of moving the summer deadline day from three weeks into the season to just before the start of the season. At the time, Manchester City, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Watford and Swansea voted against the decision, while Burnley abstained. The vote went through and it’s one that has since been heavily criticized by managers.
Now the Times have reported that England’s top tier will discuss the issue during the next meeting of club executives on September 12. But the voting on the arrangements for the next transfer window may have to be postponed until November. However, this time it appears that only nine teams are in favour, while eleven teams have opted to align the transfer deadline with the rest of Europe.
Premier League coaches have also said a lot against the early deadline, with Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino leading the way. “I think he [Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy] and a lot of people now realise it was a massive mistake. I hope that we fix the problem for the next season. We need to go back and operate in the same way that they operate in Europe because I think it’s massive when you go to compete in the Europa League or Champions League,” said the Argentine to the Guardian.
“Champions League teams can create a problem for a team like us and it’s so clear that I cannot be happy as a coach that in the last three weeks clubs from Europe can unsettle your team.” Pochettino further added.
