Clubs across England, Europe and beyond have spent months identifying potential transfer targets ahead of the January window.
We have provided you with a guide for everything to look out for ahead of the January transfer window opening.
January Transfer Window 2021: Everything You Need to Know
When Does The Transfer Window Open?
The window for both Premier League and EFL clubs opens on January 2, along with clubs from the Bundesliga and Ligue 1.
Clubs playing in La Liga and Serie A, however, will have to wait two days with their January transfer window opening on January 4.
The window provides clubs across the continent to sign players permanently or on-loan, boosting their squads ahead of the run-in.
When Does the January Transfer Window Close?
The window will remain open for around four weeks, closing on February 1 at 11 pm. This is the cut-off time for clubs in the Premier League, EFL and major European divisions.
Can Deals Be Completed After the Deadline?
As it stands, no.
In the summer, English clubs were given an extended window of 11 days to wrap up domestic transfers.
This will most likely not happen in the January transfer window despite it proving popular a few months ago.
How Does Brexit Affect the Window?
The United Kingdom and European Union have finally agreed on a deal after years of negotiating.
While the deal has plenty of benefits for either side politically, the UK’s withdrawal means a new set of laws have been imposed limiting travel. This will affect the transfer of players across the continent.
Premier League clubs will only be able to sign three Under-21 players each window with all foreign arrivals subjected to a point-based test to play in the UK.
Clubs will be able to sign only six foreign players per transfer window. Players from EU countries will need to gain a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) – a work permit-like system.
The GBE system will require players to meet a points-based threshold based on several criteria.
These include a number of senior and youth international appearances, club appearances and the quality of the selling club and its league.
These requirements are what reportedly has led to Hulk’s transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers falling through.
It is not essential to earn a GBE as a new Exceptions Panel will determine whether those who reach just below the threshold will be allowed to sign.
The purchasing of foreign players under 18 is banned due to post-Brexit rules.
Players who signed for clubs while under 18, but would not be able to do so under the new regulations, include Hector Bellerin, Paul Pogba, Cesc Fabregas and Nicolas Anelka.
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