A kitemark system for agents has been proposed after research by a leading law firm revealed that two thirds of English clubs are concerned about imminent moves by Fifa to deregulate the industry.
The world governing body announced in 2009 that it planned to ditch the global list of registered agents because the system was proving unworkable, with only 30% of those involved in deals being licensed. Under the new rules, unlicensed individuals are likely to be allowed to represent players in transfer deals.
Mishcon de Reya said that could mean friends, relatives or spouses being able to represent players and the law firm recommended a system under which agents would have to meet minimum standards and adhere to a code of conduct.
Mishcon de Reya, which conducted the survey of club directors through YouGov, said that the scheme would not be mandatory but "would provide a level of trust in an otherwise unregulated system". It also called for full transparency of all fees paid to all parties involved in a transfer.
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