How does the English Transfer Deadline Day affect Scottish football?

Everyone is aware of it, but are we prepared for it? The English summer transfer window slams shut tomorrow (Thursday 9th August 17:00 BST) and the knock on affect on the rest of Europe is untold with Scottish clubs most at risk of last-minute panic buys.

Premier League and English Football League clubs must complete transfer deals to buy players before the top-flight season starts on Friday, 10 August. However, clubs outside the top flight can complete loan deals and sign unregistered players until 31 August.

EFL chief executive Shaun Harvey told BBC:

“This new approach will give clubs and managers the stability they crave earlier in the season while also providing the flexibility to add to their squads after the traditional deadline until the end of month if required.”

How is the SPL affected?

Well firstly Scotland, like the rest of Europe, will continue to operate with a 12-week transfer window that ends on 31st August. Therefore although SPL clubs are vulnerable to last-minute panic buys from English clubs, they still have until the end of August to source replacements.

Why did it change?

The English transfer deadline changed after all 72 EFL clubs agreed with the Premier League, who voted in September 2017 in favour of closing the window before their season starts.

The vote was instigated by complaints from managers that signing players once the season was under way caused ‘disruption to their squads and preparations.’

The major concern to fans is the fact clubs can still sell players until the end of the ‘normal’ window. It begs the question, how does this resolve the ‘disruption’ managers wanted to avoid, when clubs outside of England can still enquire and unsettle English-based players.
Hazard, Courtois and Pogba are all transfer sagas that could stretch beyond the English deadline.

Who’s on the move?

Hibernian midfielder John McGinn has been strongly linked with Aston Villa. Although Celtic have also shown an interest, with time running out for Aston Villa and the prospect of a strong Championship run the villains are in pole position to acquire McGinn.

A Premier League side making late moves in the transfer market is Brighton, who are rumoured to be after Rangers’ James Tavernier and Declan John.

Declan John is also wanted by Swansea City and Ipswich Town, Championship sides who’s window closes 5pm Thursday.

Hamilton boss Martin Canning has already made it clear he’ll be taking full advantage of the ‘normal’ August window and hopes to add at least three new faces to his squad.