All You Need to Know About the Emergency Loan Window

The window for emergency loans is now officially open, a mere eight days after the summer transfer window reached its conclusion.

But who can enter, what kind of deals can be made and how long for? We've got all the need-to-know answers right here...

So yeah, who can enter?

Any of the 72 clubs that operate below the Premier League.

Top flight sides require special dispensation to enter. For them, it's quite literally, only for emergencies.

Is it just loans?

Loans, yes. Although clubs can still bring in free agents, providing they were unattached before the close of the summer window.

There are no laws preventing loans that include an obligation to buy, but outright permanent deals cannot go through until January 1.

And how long can these loans last for?

Anywhere between 28 and 93 days - although deals of the latter length will run until the New Year.

Only then can short-term loans become long-term ones [from January until the end of the season].

Are there any other restrictions?

Yes. Only domestic loans can be made. So if you're hoping to add a bit of foreign flair you'll have to rely on overseas players currently plying their trade in English football.

This applies to Scottish-based players, too - you can't 'ave 'em.

When does the loan window close?

Always on the fourth Thursday in November, so this year it'll be the 25th. Likewise, the second emergency window will close on the fourth Thursday in March.

Free transfers can still be made between November 25 and January 1, as long as they fit the criteria mentioned above.

Any deals so far?

Just the one Championship loan - Elliott Ward has joined Huddersfield from Bournemouth for a month.

However, Birmingham City have brought in former Leyton Orient man Shane Lowry on a free transfer​.