Major League Soccer confirmed on July 1 the revised 2020 transfer windows for its clubs in the USA and Canada, as approved by world soccer governing body FIFA:
- Two-day transfer window: Mon., July 6 – Tues., July 7
- Secondary transfer window: Wed., Aug. 12 – Thurs., Oct. 29
The new transfer windows were established as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the previously scheduled primary transfer window (Feb. 12–May 5) and secondary transfer window (originally scheduled from July 7–Aug. 5).
Additional information on the 2020 transfer windows follows below:
Two-Day Transfer Window
This transfer window was designed to complete transactions executed by MLS clubs prior to the suspension of the season and in the lead-up to travel to Orlando for the MLS is Back Tournament.
Due to player safety and logistics, this window will allow for limited activity and only for teams to round out their roster. For example, trades among MLS teams will not be permitted during this window. International transfers are only permitted if the acquired player has his work authorization in the USA or Canada, and is already located within the USA or Canada or he is able to travel without restrictions. Signings of Designated Players or signings using Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) for participation in the MLS is Back Tournament are also not allowed.
Players who will officially be activated during this two-day window for participation in the MLS is Back Tournament include: Braian Galvan (signed by Colorado Rapids on Jan. 16), Franco Jara (signed by FC Dallas on Jan. 21), Andy Najar (signed by LAFC on June 17) and Collen Warner (signed by the Colorado Rapids on June 30).
Secondary Transfer Window
This window (Aug. 12-Oct. 29) will kick off the day after the MLS is Back Tournament final and operate in a similar fashion to windows in previous seasons, including transfers, trades and other player signings.
What’s notable is that this MLS transfer window coincides with several transfer windows in countries around the world. For a full list of FIFA-approved transfer windows around the world, click here.
