Deal sheets explained: How Sunderland could get extra time to make new signings and why Jermain Defoe deal can be completed after the deadline

The Black Cats have been in advanced talks to re-sign Jermain Defoe, yet that deal doesn’t have to be completed before tonight’s 11pm deadline as the striker is a free agent after leaving Rangers.

Sunderland have also been looking to strengthen in other areas, most notably at full-back and in central midfield, while Aiden O’Brien looks set to join Portsmouth.

But while the transfer window is set to slam shut at 11pm this evening, the Black Cats could have an extra two hours in which to finalise the details of any further incomings or outgoings.

As per EFL rules, Sunderland and their league rivals can be given until 1am to complete the deal - providing that the club have submitted a 'Deal Sheet'.

These sheets provide details of the impending transfer and confirm that an agreement has been reached, before providing clubs with extra time in which to submit all the required documentation.

The details required on this sheet are fairly basic and amount to the clubs and player involved and the fee being paid, if there is one.

Deal sheets cannot be requested until 9pm on transfer deadline day and then must be submitted, fully completed, by 11pm.

Once received and approved by the EFL, clubs can then be granted permission to submit all the required transfer paperwork by a 1am deadline.

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