The prospect of moving in the middle of season can be hard for players, with no pre-season or time to integrate with the squad.
Former England and Everton defender Phil Jagielka unexpectedly moved from Derby to Stoke due to the Rams’ off-field financial issues in January 2022.
“It was very strange,” Jagielka told BBC Sport. “I was due to play a game [but] Derby couldn’t offer me anything else. It was a case of not really being sure what was going to go on, but thankfully, Stoke were interested.
“I think the deal was done probably in about 20 minutes, but for me, it wasn’t so much a massive deal. I was coming towards the end of the career, but it was a bit of a strange one.”
Stoke was only down the road so Jagielka’s move was easier, but for others, it is not as simple.
“If you’re going permanently then obviously it’s literally all hands to the pump and you probably will leave the family for a month to settle yourself in and go and find out new schools, potentially new languages, new place to live,” adds Jagielka.
“But there’s a big support unit in most football clubs, like player liaisons. People help you look for houses, rent, stay in a hotel for a month if need be. If it’s in January when you get your move, the games come thick and fast. You won’t actually get to see your family anyway, even if they move down with you.
“A lot of the time, the families will stay put and a lot of work will be done behind the scenes to sort them out eventually, but normally for probably the first couple of weeks it’s all about getting into your football club, getting to know your new team-mates.”
A move in January can disrupt a settled dressing room, but Jagielka believes mid-season signings can also boost the playing group too.
“I think [it can be positive] because you’re either trying to win something, solidify the good start you’ve had, or go and win a competition or qualify for a European competition.”
“You’re getting improvements in there to help you fulfil what your sort of goals are for the season or on the flip side, you are really struggling and you need help.”
This article is the latest from BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team.
