Player Transfers
GlobalB Law advises esports organisations, players and agents on transfer negotiations, buyout mechanics and the cross-border contractual complexity that defines the modern roster market.
Player transfers in esports lack the centralised governing bodies and established transfer-window systems familiar from traditional sport, leaving the mechanics of each deal to be negotiated from first principles. A transfer typically involves terminating or suspending an existing player contract, agreeing a transfer or release fee with the selling organisation, and then entering a new agreement with the acquiring organisation, all potentially subject to different legal systems.
GlobalB Law manages the end-to-end legal process: reviewing existing contracts for buyout triggers, termination rights and restrictive covenants; structuring the transfer agreement to allocate risk across the three-party relationship; and advising on tax treatment of transfer fees in Türkiye, the EU and the US.
Where transfers involve minors, a recurring reality in esports, we provide specific guidance on the additional protections required under Turkish, EU and US law, including parental consent, earnings-protection obligations and limits on post-term restrictions that apply to underage players.
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Preguntas frecuentes
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there a standard transfer fee structure in esports?
No. Unlike football, esports has no central governing body that sets transfer mechanics or fee norms. Every transfer is a commercial negotiation between the parties. We advise on market-standard deal points and help clients avoid terms that are common in hastily drafted agreements but difficult to enforce.
What happens if a player under contract refuses to play or joins a rival team?
The organisation's remedies depend on the contract terms and the applicable law. Turkish and EU employment law limits the extent to which a player can be compelled to perform, but breach of an exclusivity or non-compete clause can give rise to claims for damages and injunctive relief. We advise on the practical enforcement options available in each situation.
How are transfer fees taxed in Türkiye?
Transfer fees received by a Turkish-resident organisation are generally treated as business income and subject to corporate tax. The position for fees paid to or received by individuals is more nuanced and depends on whether the player is classified as an employee or an independent contractor. We analyse each transfer structure and advise on withholding obligations and declaration requirements.
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