In football, timing is everything — and that extends well beyond the pitch. For agents handling international transfers, image rights deals, or global commercial partnerships, the way currency is moved can make or break the value of a deal.
With exchange rates constantly shifting and global economic conditions far from stable, agents now need to think beyond just player performance and club negotiations. They need a plan for currency too.
Why FX Should Matter to Every Agent
Let’s say you’ve just secured a move for a player from Brazil to a Championship club in the UK. The club agrees to pay a €300,000 agent fee in instalments over six months. By the time the second payment arrives, the euro has weakened against the pound due to falling Eurozone inflation and political uncertainty in the EU — meaning your income in GBP is worth less than expected.
Or perhaps you’ve just negotiated a commission in USD for a player moving to MLS. With the US dollar’s ongoing strength (driven by the Federal Reserve’s slower-than-expected approach to rate cuts), converting that to GBP today could cost you more than it would’ve just weeks ago.
These aren’t edge cases. They’re everyday realities for agents working across borders.
Real-World FX Risk: Hidden Costs in Global Deals
Even top-tier agents have seen deals impacted by FX fluctuations. While these may not make headlines, the effect on bottom lines is real.
In recent months, the Bank of England’s hold on interest rates and Eurozone growth concerns have caused GBP and EUR volatility, while geopolitical tensions and mixed signals from central banks have made the dollar particularly strong.
The result? Agents paid in foreign currencies are finding that what they receive — once converted — doesn’t always match expectations.
What You Can Do: FX Tips for Agents
Whether you are representing players across Europe, Africa, Asia, or the Americas, here are a few smart moves to consider:
- Use Forward Contracts: Lock in exchange rates in advance to protect your earnings from market swings — especially useful if you know when commissions will be paid.
- Set Rate Alerts: Stay ahead of currency movements by setting automated alerts for when your target exchange rate is hit.
- Work With a Sports-Focused FX Broker: Banks often charge hidden fees or offer subpar rates. An independent broker who understands football timelines and deal structures can ensure payments are fast, secure, and cost-efficient.
Why It Matters More in 2025
The global sports economy is growing, but so is financial pressure. FIFA’s new agent regulations, increased scrutiny on income disclosures, and tighter margins across leagues mean every percentage point counts.
As a FIFA-licensed agent myself, I fully understand the day-to-day challenges agents face — chasing deals across time zones, navigating changing regulations, and fighting for fair value. Many agents in my network have voiced concerns about how much they are losing through currency conversion, especially when handling international commissions or cross-border payments.
That is exactly why partnering with Currencies 4 You was a natural progression for me. In fact, I was already referring my network to their services long before I officially came on board.
Now, as Global Head of Sports, I am advocating even more for the exceptional, transparent service we offer — because agents work far too hard to see their earnings chipped away by unnecessary FX costs. You hustle for every deal… so why should you lose out at the final hurdle?
A saving of just 2-3% on a commission can mean thousands retained — money that belongs in your pocket, not in bank margins.
Let’s Make It Simple
At Currencies 4 You, we work with agents, players, clubs and intermediaries — offering tailored FX services that protect your income and free you up to focus on what you do best: making deals happen.
You don’t need to become an expert in the markets. You just need the right partner to guide you through them.
If you're an agent looking to make smarter, smoother, and more profitable international transfers, drop me a message — or email me directly at baljit.rihal@currencies4you.com and let’s save you some money.
I’m Baljit Rihal, Global Head of Sports at Currencies 4 You. I help people in sport and business protect their money when moving it across borders. Follow for useful insights on FX and the global sports business — and feel free to reach out if you would like to chat.
Disclaimer: Exchange rates fluctuate due to market conditions, and the figures used in this article are illustrative examples based on market trends as of today. Savings will vary depending on transaction size, timing, and market conditions. Always consult a financial expert before making large international transactions.