Sheffield Wednesday transfer embargo after payment rule breaches

Sheffield Wednesday have been handed restrictions over spending for the next three transfer windows after failing to pay staff wages on time.

The restrictions will prevent the club from carrying out any transfers or loans which involve a fee for this summer's window and the two in 2026.

That restriction is currently running alongside their registration embargo which was imposed a fortnight ago, preventing the club from signing any new players, even free transfers, until they have paid outstanding wages in full.

The only exception to that ruling would be if the club had fewer than 23 players in their senior playing squad, in which case they would be allowed to bring in a free transfer or free loan without breaking the embargo.

Wednesday have given notice that they will appeal against the decision.

The English Football League has also charged both the club and owner Dejphon Chansiri over the non-payment of wages, and those cases will be heard by an independent disciplinary commission.

The club twice failed to pay wages on time, in March and May, and the delays are said to have exceeded the 30 days in total which are provided in EFL rules.

Chansiri apologised to players, coaches and staff in a club statement over the late payment last month, and the club was placed under a registration embargo two weeks ago.

The problems led Sheffield South East MP Clive Betts to urge him to sell the club, accusing Chansiri of holding it "hostage".

In a statement, the ruling body said: "The EFL can confirm that Sheffield Wednesday Football Club is now subject to a three-window fee restriction after exceeding 30 days of late payments between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025.

"In accordance with EFL regulations, the restriction will cover the entirety of this summer's window and two full windows thereafter.

"The club has notified the EFL of its intention to appeal this decision, and this will be heard in due course.

"Separately, on 3 June 2025, the EFL issued charges against the club and owner Mr Dejphon Chansiri in respect of non-payment of player wages in March 2025 and May 2025. This matter is being considered by an independent disciplinary commission, and because of the ongoing proceedings, the league is unable to comment further at this time."

Wednesday have responded by acknowledging the EFL statement, confirming their intention to appeal and adding: "The club are also unable to make any further comment at this time."

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