League

MLS transfer window paused due to COVID-19 impact

The Major League Soccer primary transfer window is currently on hold, and has been since the league suspended play and issued a training moratorium on March 12, the league office tells MLSsoccer.com. U.S. Soccer and Canada Soccer are working closely with professional leagues in the US and Canada to determine when the window can resume in accordance with FIFA guidance.


The primary transfer window was set to run through May 5 while the secondary transfer window was set to open on July 7. 


No trades or signings can be processed by MLS clubs for the time being. The training moratorium is currently extended through at least May 15 while competitive matches are suspended until at least June 8


Once the transfer market is safe to re-open, the lost days will be added back, the league says. There is no firm plan as to when the transfer window will reopen, with the COVID-19 pandemic still a fluid situation. MLS has various sub-committees working through scenarios that include the safe return to play, scheduling and more. 


Two Homegrown signings were announced by Chicago Fire FC after the league was suspended, though those signings were made official before March 12. The club announced at a later date. 


One potential hurdle if the transfer market was open during these unprecedented times is player movement across state lines, with much travel restricted across the globe to limit the spread of the pandemic.