Streamlining International Transfers: Key ITC Updates for January 2025

The January football transfer window is in full swing and clubs throughout the UK will be busy trying to secure the services of players; whether that be on a permanent or loan deals. The transfer process can be fraught (particularly international transfers) with difficulties given the short time frame and other, unforeseen problems. This process can be particularly anxious and complex when clubs are dealing with other national associations.

International Transfers – Process

It’s a well-trodden path that clubs follow in cross border transfers to the extent that the transfer agreement between a player’s former and new club is concluded along with, or shortly after, the employment contract has been finalised between the new club and the player,.

Thereafter, a submission is made by the club(s) of all data and mandatory documents to FIFA’s Transfer Matching System (TMS) followed by a request from the new association for the player’s ITC.

The transfer is subsequently ratified when the former Association responds to the ITC request and the new Association enters the player in the TMS and registers the player using its national registration system.

Potential Issue

However, there have been instances where a national association (of the selling club) won’t issue the ITC because, for example, of a pending contractual dispute between the player[s] and the club[s]. This can (and has) cause delays and has often resulted in the transfer being delayed or abandoned.

FIFA’s Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP)

However, FIFA’s new RSTP[1] (with effect from 1 January 2025) has sought to close this gap to the extent that if the former association fails to respond to the ITC request within 72 hours, the new association will be able to register the player with the new club and enter the relevant player registration information in TMS.

Furthermore, and the crucial point here, is that, “In all cases, the issuance of an ITC is without prejudice to any contractual dispute between the player, their former club and/or their new club.”

In short, it is no longer possible for national associations to refuse to issue an ITC following a request from an association of the buying club.

Please feel free to contact David Winnie at Gilson Gray if you require any further information.

[1] RSTP (January 2025 Ed.) Annexe 3 at P.80, para. 6.

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The information and opinions contained in this blog are for information only.  They are not intended to constitute advice and should not be relied upon or considered as a replacement for advice.  Before acting on any information contained in this blog, please seek solicitor’s advice from Gilson Gray.