Loan regulations amended for 2020/21

Following a recommendation from the Coronavirus Joint Response Regulation Sub-Group, the SPFL Board has approved new regulations regarding loans between SPFL clubs for the 2020/21 season.

In summary, in relation to domestic loans an SPFL club is now permitted to have registered to it:

(i) a maximum of 6 players on loan at any one time plus any approved emergency goalkeeper (increased from 4);  

(ii) a maximum of 2 players on loan at any one time from another club in the same SPFL division (increased from 1); and    

(iii) a maximum of 4 players on loan at any one time from another club in a different SPFL division (increased from 2).  

In addition, the dispensation currently afforded to League One and Two clubs enabling them to sign players on loan in September and February has been extended to Championship clubs.  The “September” window has been amended to October given that the Scottish FA has confirmed that the Scottish transfer window will close on 5 October.

SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has presented a unique set of challenges for clubs across the divisions in Scotland. As we look towards a return to competitive football, changes in loan regulations are just one way to help clubs build a squad for the coming season. We recognise that there are a large number of players currently out of contract and these amendments simply provide our members with more flexibility in planning for the new season.

“In addition to helping clubs to field a competitive team for the season ahead, these changes will also provide an opportunity for younger players to get experience of senior football. This is particularly important given the uncertainty around whether there will be an appetite from clubs for reserve competition this season.

“It is vitally important that Scottish football shows flexibility in dealing with the myriad of challenges facing the game as we continue to deal with the fallout of the global pandemic. Increasing the flexibility within the SPFL loan system is clearly one practical way of achieving this.”