CENTREFIELD LLP

Selling Points

  • One of the UK’s leading boutique sports law firms, offering specialized legal services tailored exclusively to the sports industry.

  • Renowned for its expertise in player contract negotiations, agent arrangements, and regulatory matters, including compliance with FIFA’s latest transfer and agent rules.

  • Distinguished track record of representing high-profile athletes and clubs in salary disputes, disciplinary hearings, and CAS arbitrations.

  • Deep industry connections and strategic insight, with a focus on football, but also active across rugby, cricket, and other major sports.

  • Offers personalised, hands-on service with a focus on understanding the unique needs of sports clients.

Key Clients

  • Football Clubs: Manchester United, Manchester City, and other Premier League clubs.

  • Athletes: High-profile footballers and rugby players involved in complex contract negotiations and transfers.

  • Sports Associations: Governing bodies and agents seeking expert legal guidance on regulatory compliance and governance issues.

Work Highlights

  • Jordan Henderson Transfer: Represented Jordan Henderson in two significant career moves: his high-profile departure from Liverpool FC to join Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League and his subsequent transfer to Ajax.

  • Transfer Deals: Advised on football transfers in both men’s and women’s games, with deals valued collectively at over £1.5 billion.

  • Arbitration Expertise: Successfully represented multiple clients in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), solidifying its reputation as a go-to firm for contentious and regulatory matters.

  • Regulatory Issues: Provided guidance to clubs and players on navigating FIFA’s new regulations for agents and transfers, ensuring compliance and mitigating risks.