FIFA announce two key changes to transfer rules that could affect Sunderland next season

FIFA have announced two key changes to their transfer regulations in light of the COVID-19 crisis.
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The game’s governing body have announced that leagues will be able to open their transfer windows before the conclusion of the current campaign.

It will be up to the EFL as to whether they enforce this rule, which could allow trading within the three leagues even as the Championship conclude their campaign through July.

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Many lower-league clubs have called throughout the crisis for a relaxation of the transfer rules, which could allow revenue to be raised at a pivotal time.

FIFA have announced two changes to their transfer rulesFIFA have announced two changes to their transfer rules
FIFA have announced two changes to their transfer rules

FIFA said: “associations following a dual-year calendar are permitted to commence the 'first registration period' for the 2020-21 season prior to the completion of the 2019-20 season, subject to conditions.”

However, the Premier League are unlikely to enforce the changes.

Chief executive Richard Masters has already said England's top flight will not allow clubs to sign players before July 25, after the delayed campaign is brought to an end.

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FIFA have also announced a further change that is likely to have a significant impact on football league clubs during the 2020/21 season, whenever that takes place.

Players will now be able to play for three teams in a single campaign, having previously only been able to represent two.

This is likely to have an impact on the loan market, particularly in the winter window.

The FA are likely to change England’s summer window dates this summer, which traditionally open in mid-June and close in September.

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While clubs can approach players coming towards the end of their current contracts from June 23rd, it is not yet known when their new clubs will be able to register them.

Sunderland have nine senior players coming towards the end of their deals, plus youngster Benji Kimpioka.

They will also have to make a decision on January signings Bailey Wright and Josh Scowen, who will be free agents from the beginning of July.

They will also have to replace Antoine Semenyo and Declan John, whose loan deals have ended.