RIYADH: The Saudi Pro League has finalized its preparations for the 2024-25 season’s winter transfer window, which runs from Jan. 1 to 30.

League authorities said they held a series of workshops with member clubs to assess specific needs and objectives for the transfer window and help provide tailored support for them, including the facilitation of transfers within the league.

During the 2024 summer transfer window, the 18 SPL clubs used 16 of the 36 available slots for foreign players under the age of 21; 13 clubs signed at least one U-21 player from another country, five did not make any signings in this category. The remaining slots are available to eligible clubs during the winter window.

All 18 teams utilized their maximum allowance of eight foreign players over the age of 21 during the summer transfer window. Any clubs planning new signings in this category will therefore have to terminate contracts, sell players or deregister members of their squads.

The SPL said it will also coordinate with clubs and the Financial Sustainability Committee to ensure compliance with league policies and regulations.

A total of 115 domestic players are registered for the 2024-25 SPL season, while 132 departed due to the end or termination of a contract, or sales to clubs in other leagues. Meanwhile, 101 foreign players joined the league this season, and 32 departed. The average player age of players in the league fell from 27.6 years old to 26.2.

The SPL said its preparations for the transfer window reflect its commitment to supporting clubs through the facilitation of transfers, improved governance and planning, efforts to ensure player welfare, and enhanced financial sustainability.