The transfer rules Sunderland, Portsmouth and their rivals must remember this month

Head coach Lee Johnson and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman have held talks in recent weeks as they prepare for their first trading period at the Academy of Light, and are now looking to act.

And ahead of their first move in the January transfer window, we take a look at all the key details ahead of what looks set to be an intriguing month:

When did the 2021 January transfer window open?

The winter transfer window opened on Saturday, January 2.

This is slightly later than usual, but deals could have been agreed prior to this point – although they could not be ratified by the EFL until the window opened.

When does the 2021 January transfer window close?

The window will close on Monday, February 1 – given that January 31 falls on a Sunday.

What deals can be done during the January transfer window?

Sunderland will be able to complete both permanent and loan deals during the January transfer window, and can also sign free agents should they so wish.

The Black Cats will be able to buy and sell players to any country whose window is open during January – which is practically all of Europe.

Can any players be signed after the January transfer window closes?

Yes – Sunderland will be able to sign free agents after January if they need to bolster their squad, and providing that they have space under the League One squad and salary caps. The cut-off for free agent signings typically comes in March.

Outgoings could happen after the close of the winter window too, providing the purchasing club are in a country whose window remains open.

Can pre-contract approaches be made in January?

Yes – players from overseas who are entering the final six months of their contract will be able to be approached ahead of their deals expiring, offering the opportunity for early summer deals to be teed-up.

This could present an opportunity for Sunderland should they wish to look further afield for new faces come the summer.

Such approaches cannot be made to players currently plying their trade in England.

It also means that clubs from overseas can start to hold discussions with any of Sunderland’s players who are entering the final six months of their own deals – you may remember this was a fear with Josh Maja during the Black Cats’ first season in League One.

What should we expect from Sunderland in January?

As with most clubs in League One, it isn’t expected to be a particularly busy window.

But Johnson has some space to do business under the squad and salary caps, and is keen on adding some pace and power to his ranks.

Loan deals could be considered, with Johnson having strong links with a number of Premier League clubs after forging relationships during his time at former clubs.

Some youngsters could leave on loan, with Anthony Patterson already one name to be linked with a temporary exit.

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