World Football Governing body, FIFA on Wednesday agreed steps that will limit the number of players clubs can send out on loan from next season and will also limit the amount of money paid to agents in commissions.
In a statement, FIFA said it had taken “a series of key steps to protect the integrity of the system and prevent abuses” following a meeting of its Stakeholders Committee.
From next season, the number of international loans out and in permitted per club will be limited to eight, with that figure dropping progressively to six by the 2022/23 season. The number of players that can be loaned between the same two clubs will be capped at three.
However, the cap will only be applied to players aged over 21, or “non club-trained” players aged 21 and under.
The measures are aimed at curtailing “abusive and excessive practices”, with FIFA citing the hoarding of players by clubs and the distortion of competition when teams bring in several players on loan from a bigger club with whom they have a close relationship.