We’re now into February and the January transfer window is still open. Why? There’s an easy answer for that.
The winter market is traditionally a tough month to get business over the line as clubs are reluctant to sell their best players midway through a season. Teams across the land demand premium fees for their prized assets and as the clock ticks down towards deadline day, managers tend to hit the panic button – especially if they’ve struggled to get deals over the line in the weeks prior.
Now, we’re well and truly in that territory as we enter the final few days of wheeling and dealing. There could be plenty of ins and outs up and down Scotland as clubs look to improve on what they have by shipping out some deadwood to make way for new stars. It’ll come as no surprise to learn that Celtic have been the biggest spenders, splashing around £8million on returning hero Jota, while the Premiership leaders are also in the market for a new left-back, winger and striker before the window shuts.
Philippe Clement has managed to turn things around at Ibrox and could have some extra funds to spend in the final hours after leading Rangers into the last 16 of the Europa League. Portuguese defender Rafael Fernandes has been the only arrival so far, but there could be one or two more faces in the door as Gers dream of another fairytale European run.
Aberdeen are in freefall but Dave Cormack is continuing to bankroll Jimmy Thelin’s rebuild as the Dons look to end their barren winless run in the Premiership. Neil Critchley has wasted no time bolstering his Hearts squad who are now looking up the table rather than down. Across the city, there have been more outgoings than incomings at Easter Road, although David Gray will be keen to add fresh blood as Hibs target a top-six finish.
It could be a frantic end to the window and here, Record Sport tells you all you need to know about deadline day, including when the window shuts and how long clubs have to sign players.
When does the January transfer window close in Scotland?
There’s a slight tweak for 2025 that gives SPFL clubs more time to sort their business this winter, with the window staying open until 11pm on Monday, February 3.
When does the January transfer window close in England?
Unlike in previous years, the Scottish and English windows will both shut at the same time, 11pm on February 3. Historically there had been minor differences, with Scotland’s window extended until 11.30pm last winter – but that is no longer the case.
Can clubs sign players out with the January window?
For very last-minute deals, teams will be able to delay transfers by an hour if they can submit certain pieces of paperwork by the 11pm deadline on February 3. After that? Only players who were free agents when the window closed will be able to sign for top-flight sides.