English FA in talks to move transfer window to August

The English FA is in discussions with a number of associations across Europe over a proposal to move the summer transfer window to the months of August until October. 

The window in England is currently scheduled to open on June 18 – but that is not expected to go ahead. 

The 2019-20 Premier League season will resume that same week and will continue into July while the final nine rounds of fixtures are completed.

Transfer window rumble

The transfer window is normally open between June and September, but with football set to be played through the summer it is thought the majority of clubs would prefer it to be put back so they can see how the season plays out before making signings.

FIFA are to provide guidance on the technicalities of when new windows can be set, with individual associations from each country then able to finalise specific dates.

According to Sky Sports there is a general consensus that the deadline for the window slamming shut should be Friday, October 2.

Some leagues, such as Serie A, have already finalised their window, with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) setting the dates between September 1 to October 5.

The French Football Federation (FFF), meanwhile, have already opened their window as a result of their league being cancelled, but it is thought they are considering allowing clubs to do deals with foreign clubs between August and October.

The likes of Chelsea have already confirmed deals to take place during the window, with Ajax’s Hakim Ziyech joining them and RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner likely to follow suit. 

Manchester City are keen to sign Leicester’s Ben Chilwell along with Chelsea. The young England left-back has been identified as one of Chelsea’s top targets this summer but could face rival interest from City. 

Havertz move to Liverpool looks concrete

However, Chelsea having spent their money on Werner suggests Liverpool’s rumoured interest in Kai Havertz could be possible.

The Bayer Leverkusen forward is one of the hottest properties in German football, and certainly, his intelligence and versatility would suit Jurgen Klopp’s tactics. 

Should Liverpool make a move for Havertz, that would seriously spark the window into life.

Manchester United appear to have several big names on their shortlist, and if Havertz became unavailable that would likely jolt them into action and lead to a more aggressive pursuit of Jack Grealish and Jadon Sancho.

Much will depend on who seals Champions League qualification for next season, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Wolves, Sheffield United and Tottenham all still in contention for fourth spot.

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