The transfer window could soon be closed before the start of each season if plans being discussed by Premier League clubs go ahead.
The debate over an earlier close to the transfer market was re-ignited by Swansea City manager Paul Clement at the weekend.
Clement argued that uncertainty over recruitment and departures of players was not only hampering the planning of managers, but also short-changing fans with players kept on the sidelines.
His comments came after the Swans’ Gylfi Sigurdsson and Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk both sat out the clubs’ goalless draw at St. Mary’s.
Premier League clubs will now discuss the proposed introduction of a new summer transfer window that closes before the opening game of next season.
It is understood talks will take place between every club next month about whether to change the deadline of the current window, which closes nearly three weeks after the first game of the season.
It has been suggested a majority of top-flight clubs currently favour an earlier closure, and the issue could be voted on during their next shareholders’ meeting in September.
Clement said: “Our club would support that decision. The majority of clubs are in favour but maybe all have to be for it to go through. It could happen next year.”
At least 14 of the Premier League’s 20 clubs must agree for a new rule to be introduced.
One consideration is whether Premier League clubs will be weaker if the summer window closes in the middle of August.
Clubs from other European leagues, including Spain and Italy, would still be allowed to sign players from England in line with their own domestic deadlines.
It has raised concerns that Premier League sides would be unable to sign reinforcements, or replacements, which could lead to a competitive disadvantage.
But some clubs are understood to believe it would be better for the league’s integrity if none of its teams could add to their squads from the first match of the new season until the January transfer window.
