This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
On Thursday, Premier League clubs will gather via video conference to decide on the dates for the upcoming transfer window. The decision will be made at the league's latest shareholders' meeting, with a number of dates under consideration.
The Premier League season is set to finish on July 26, while UEFA has requested that summer windows across the continent close on or before October 5. The league is expected to align its windows with the English Football League and the Football Association.
Discussions will also take place on a start date for the 2020-21 campaign, with the scheduling of Euro 2020 in the summer of 2021 providing a 'bookmark' point in working out the club calendar. A date in September looks most likely, possibly immediately after the month's international break.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas has suggested a September 12 start date for his competition's 38-match calendar. However, decisions on changes to the formats of the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup must be made before a date can be fixed.
UEFA's understanding of the difficulties created by the coronavirus pandemic and its increased willingness to co-operate on the playing of domestic league matches on Champions League and Europa League nights may assist the league's planning.
Additionally, Premier League clubs will receive an update on discussions between a cross-sport working group and the government regarding the return of supporters to stadiums. The league's chief executive, Richard Masters, has stated the competition's willingness to act as a guinea pig for any work on a phased reopening of grounds.
