Recruitment Strategy
Building a Recruitment Strategy Before the Transfer Window
By Sarah Mitchell5 February 20269 min read
Clubs that enter transfer windows with clear requirements and prepared shortlists make better decisions under pressure. Here is how to prepare.
Start with replacement planning
Recruitment strategy should begin before a vacancy exists. Identify positions with contract expiry risk, ageing profiles or tactical evolution needs. Create recruitment projects with defined priorities, budgets and timelines.
Build the longlist early
Use the months before a transfer window to research candidates, assign scout reports and compare options. Entering the window with a prepared longlist reduces reactive, last-minute decisions.
- Document position requirements and Club DNA criteria
- Create recruitment projects with assigned scouts
- Monitor shortlisted players for contract and performance changes
- Establish internal approval workflows before contact is initiated
- Maintain recruitment history for future reference
Frequently asked questions
- When should clubs begin transfer window preparation?
- Ideally several months before the window opens, with ongoing monitoring throughout the season for priority positions.