Premier
League clubs will 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.
Sky Sports News has been told by sources that the "majority" of top-flight
clubs currently favour an earlier closure, and the issue could be voted on
during their next shareholders' meeting in September.
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.
Paul Clement, Swansea City manager, said after Saturday's draw at
Southampton: "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."
Transfer windows in January would be unaffected as current proposals only
relate to the summer months.
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