Premier League Considers Cutting January Transfer Window to Two Weeks

Premier League clubs are considering shortening the January transfer window to two weeks to reduce squad disruption. The summer window may also be cut. Despite a quiet January, English clubs spent over £260m, more than double Saudi Pro League’s £118m. The proposal, discussed on February 6, may go to a vote, with talks planned with other European leagues.

Taking the concerns of Premier League clubs into account, officials are considering a significant overhaul of the transfer window system. Clubs are reportedly frustrated with the extended duration of both the summer and January transfer windows, which they believe disrupts squad stability during key phases of the season. The January window, which closed on February 4, could be reduced to just two weeks, while the summer window may also be shortened.

Despite a relatively quiet January window, Premier League clubs still led global spending, investing over £260 million in new signings. This amount was more than twice the £118 million spent by Saudi Pro League clubs and surpassed spending in Serie A and the Bundesliga. Notably, underperforming Manchester City emerged as the biggest spenders. Meanwhile, EFL Championship clubs collectively spent more than top-flight teams in Italy and Germany.

A similar change was attempted in 2018 and 2019 when the summer window closed before the season began, but it was later abandoned due to European leagues continuing business until the end of August. Now, following a February 6 meeting of sporting directors from all 20 Premier League clubs, the proposal may go to a vote among owners and chief executives, with discussions also planned with other European leagues.