Thanks to a deal between FIFA, the Football League, and the Football Conference there is an extended window of opportunity to sign loan players.
The agreement had long been rumoured, but few details were available on it. It has now been confirmed that a "loan window" will open on Wednesday until 24th November to take players for up to three months. A second "loan window" will come in seven days after the January transfer window shuts until the last week of March - the traditional "Deadline Day".
Conference National Clubs are now allowed up to 8 long term (season) loans, of which 4 can be over 23, and four under 23. There are no longer any limits on short term loan players, but only 5 loan players of any type can be included in a matchday squad. All loans in the special loan windows must be ratified by the Conference, and the Club(s) involved must provide "valid reason" for the loan.
First to take advantage of the new window is Burton Albion who expect to sign Lincoln striker, and one time Bulls target, Danny Bacon on a months loan on Wednesday. Bacon, 24, scored the winner as his former club Hucknall beat the Bulls in last season's FA Trophy, but has only featured twice as substitute for his new club this season.