English Summer Transfer Window Could Run Until End of January 2021 Due to Coronavirus Crisis
By Adam Aladay
English football is exploring the possibility of extending the summer transfer window until the end of January 2021 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, while a task force has also been set up to deal with the situation regarding contracts.
With the coronavirus continuing to impact the lives of so many, governments from around the world have been forced to take drastic action.
In England, all Premier League, EFL and Women's Super League action was originally suspended until 3 April. But this has now been extended until at least 30 April.
It is far from certain if and when professional football will resume in England due to the rapidly changing virus. However, following a meeting between Premier League clubs, it was revealed that they had agreed not to void the campaign even in the 'worst-case scenario'.
To that end, the PFA's deputy chief executive recently admitted that there are very few alternatives to playing the remainder of the English football season behind closed doors.
The Daily Mail are now reporting that football authorities are considering the possibility of extending the summer transfer window well beyond its usual time. The transfer window is due to close this summer on 1 September, but this new proposal would see the window open at the end of the current campaign, before closing at the end of January 2021.
Of course, clubs must adhere to strict regulations, but world football's governing body has created a task force to deal with the problems that will arise regarding transfers due to the coronavirus crisis.
He's certainly made his mark since coming in, and Man United are looking to make it permanent! ✍️📋 https://t.co/INA9qY7YIe
— 90min (@90min_Football) March 24, 2020
Elsewhere, this task force will also look to solve the current situation regarding contracts, particularly those that expire on 30 June. A FIFA spokesperson said: "On 18 March the Bureau of the FIFA Council decided to establish a FIFA-Confederations Working Group in response to COVID-19.
"This Working Group will assess the need for amendments or temporary dispensations to the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players' to protect contracts for both players and clubs and adjusting player registration periods.
"This work has already started and will be conducted in consultation with all key stakeholders, including confederations, member associations, clubs, leagues and players."