I don't get it - Viera to go to Real Madrid for £30M. I thought the transfer system was dead and buried a few months ago. What has changed? Nothing. Am I missing something obvious here.

-- Anonymous, May 07, 2002

Answers

The transfer system hasn't changed much apart from to cover the smaller clubs and the investment they put into training up youngsters. You'll still get these big money transfers. It's interesting to read that Viera has said he is the one that will decide if he goes and not Wenger.

-- Anonymous, May 07, 2002

The main change in the transfer system effected the ability of a player to move freely at the conclusion of his contract. Because of this, most Club's now act before the end of a players contract - either to extend said agreement, or to sell the player while still under his existing contract.

Viera is still under contract and therefore Arsenal are within their rights to require a substantial transfer fee for him - as it is actually Viera himself who has decided he wants to be off, this seems entirely reasonable.

In reality, little has really changed.

-- Anonymous, May 07, 2002

I think the main difference is with the young players, who can't move on unless the club are paid compensation, regardless of their contract.

There is also a protected transfer rule, where if a player signs a contract for more than 3 years, he is free to discuss a move with other clubs after the 3 year period has elapsed. This would be either immediately for an amount set by tribunal or at the end of his deal for nowt.

That's why we need to re-sign players, even when they may have 2 or 3 years left on their deals.

-- Anonymous, May 07, 2002