09 Jul 2017 15:58:51
Hi Ed, I'm having a debate with someone about agent fees and just wondered if you could clear up one point for us? Do clubs know in advance how big a fee an agent will expect, or is this only presented during discussion over personal terms?

Thanks in advance, and if you can't help then no problem.

{Ed002's Note - In advance of what?}

1.) 09 Jul 2017
09 Jul 2017 16:08:02
As in, before the clubs have agreed a transfer fee. The debate was whether an surprisingly excessive agent fee could derail a transfer.

{Ed002's Note - It doesn't really work like that.}

2.) 09 Jul 2017
09 Jul 2017 17:06:49
Oh ok, thanks very much. I guess a lot of what we assume about that side of things is just picked up from media gossip and Football Manager. :)

{Ed002's Note - The process should be along the lines of: Clubs will typically informally ask an agent (a) if the player is going to be available, and (b) would the player consider a move to the club. There may be some broad discussion on the sort of deal that would be offered but no more than that. If the answer is yes, it is then necessary for the club to approach the player's club to ask if they would be willing to sell and if they would grant permission to speak to a player's agent formally about a transfer and possibly even the player about actually making a move. This will typically involve either broadly (through an offer) or actually agreeing a fee and responsibility for any significant costs (agents fees etc.). Once this has happened the club will be able to speak to the player's agent and perhaps the player himself to look at the package that will be involved. Many players are looked at and discussed at a high-level with agents and clubs; a subset of those have an offer placed; a subset of those involve discussions with the player's club; a subset of those involve discussions over terms, and; a subset of those go ahead.

Agents will often try and get more specific details of wages and other financials before they should - but most clubs are happy to follow this process. Players will often talk to other players about moves but, whilst wrong, is tolerated as it would be impossible to manage.}

3.) 09 Jul 2017
09 Jul 2017 17:13:22
Brilliant, thank you very much for the concise description. Much appreciated.