Prem hold talks with government over post-Brexit transfer issues

Oli Fisher
N'Golo Kante Chelsea

The Premier League is wary of the impact of Brexit on the competition and is seeking to avoid stringent regulations on signing European players.

The English top-flight has benefited greatly from trading players from within the European Economic Area, which has allowed clubs to sign without a work permit being required.

Foreign players from outside the EEA must satisfy strict criteria to gain a work permit, like playing in 60 per cent of international matches.

Football authorities do not believe merely ensuring the regulations which currently apply to players outwith the EEA would be the right approach, post Brexit.

Such criteria would have seen the likes of N’Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez prevented from playing in England and the Premier League says it has held positive talks about the “vital” acquisition of European players “with the freedom they currently enjoy.”

A Premier League spokesperson said: “Like many other organisations dependent on a combination of domestic and international talent, we are waiting to better understand what the political and regulatory landscape will be after the UK leaves the European Union.

“Access to talented footballers from across Europe has played a key part in the growth of the Premier League, with match attendance and global interest increasing significantly as high quality foreign players have taken their place in the competition with and against the best British and Irish players.

“It is vital that our clubs can continue to acquire European players with the freedom they currently enjoy.

“We have held positive discussions with Government about the importance of access to European players for our clubs, and the many cultural and economic benefits a globally popular Premier League brings to the UK.”

The Premier League hopes a collective approach with its football allies, the Football Association and the EFL, will help persuade government.

A FA spokesperson said: “We are continuing to work with the Premier League, EFL and a range of government departments, including: DCMS, Home Office, Treasury, during this consultation period.”

 

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