FIFA, the world governing body of soccer, announced Wednesday the full implementation of new online system for clearing player transfers.
The transfer matching system (TMS), which was used on a test basis for the past 18 months by more than 3,600 soccer clubs, is intended to make the system of player movement more transparent.
The TMS will be mandatory for all player transfers starting on Friday.
The system requires both clubs involved in a transfer to enter the same information into the online database in order for the transfer to be validated.
“This is a historic moment for football. TMS is a relatively simple online system but it will have a tremendous impact on the international transfer of players,” said FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter.
“Thanks to TMS, football’s authorities have more details available on each and every transfer. The most important thing is that it increases the transparency of individual transactions and helps us to tackle issues such as the fight against money laundering and the protection of minors in transfers.”
Clubs must enter more than 30 pieces of information into the system pertaining to a transfer, including payments to a player and banking information. Documentation would also need to be provided to back up the information, including copies of contracts and player records.
The TMS will also be used to ensure that clubs receive proper compensation for young players who depart in a transfer after a training stint.
