How will huge Premier League transfer window changes affect Sheffield United?

Sheffield United will have a little longer to complete their transfer business this summer, after a Premier League shareholders meeting in London led to a significant change to the summer transfer window.

What exactly has happened, though? Find out below...

What has happened?

Premier League clubs have voted to return to the traditional summer transfer window format, which will see top-flight clubs given until 5pm on September 1 to make the signings they need.

Recently the summer window has closed before the start of the season, a move that was out of sync with the rest of Europe’s top leagues.

Why have they done it?

For the last couple of years the Premier League has chosen to close the transfer window before the start of the season, primarily as it has been seen as a distraction once the season has been underway.

That logic may seem sound, yet this has been perceived as a problem, as other leagues around Europe have kept their transfer window open until the end of August.

That means that once the English window had shut at the start of the season, teams from abroad could still buy players from England, yet Premier League teams could not sign a replacement.

How will it affect Sheffield United?

For one thing, Sheffield United will have a longer time period to complete their business in. The Blades are normally good at getting their business done in time, but Chris Wilder and co will benefit from a few extra weeks to scour the market.

It also means that if any European teams make a late move for any Sheffield United players, the club could be more open to a deal, as they will be able to look for a replacement.