Points make signings... that’s how it works

BREXIT has not dashed the Premier League’s dreams of recruiting Europe’s best young players, according to a leading sports consultancy.

The game’s governing bodies may have redrafted the rules surrounding visas following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, leaving many clubs scratching their heads.

But it seems the new regulations are not as strict as first feared – and the new regime will not starve the top flight of the cream of the crop from the continent.

Under a new system youngsters need to reach a crucial 15-point mark before they are eligible to play here.

The new regime was greeted with groans of disapproval – but scouting expert Lee Jamison insists it does not mean the door slamming shut on foreign talent.

He said: “I don’t think there is any question that clubs will now look down the pyramid to source the best domestic players that they can.

“There is a blanket ban on clubs in this country signing foreign players under the age of 18. There isn’t any way around that.

The bigger clubs will cherry-pick the best talent. That’s always happened, of course.

“But what you are already seeing is clubs who are ahead of the curve using a variety of means to achieve the same end.”

Jamison – in charge of Insight 7 which works with clubs in spotting trends and identifying up-and-coming talent – explained: “For instance, there are a number who own foreign clubs. Leicester City own OH Leuven in Belgium and Brighton own Second Division club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

“There is nothing to stop these clubs from signing promising young players. They then have them within their coaching structure and can monitor their development.

“Crucially, they are also then able to play them in their first-teams or have them in the matchday squad.

“This helps when counting up the points necessary for them to obtain a work permit in this country. It’s within the rules and just one way that clubs are able to still get their hands on players they want.” ■■For further information on Insight 7’s services: lee.jamison@insight7.consulting