30 August 2024
Kees Vos talks on BBC Business Daily
SEG founder Kees Vos was interviewed by journalist Matt Lines for the BBC Business Daily podcast. Kees, announced as ‘one of the world’s most influential football agents’, explains how the football transfer window works and reflects on how much the trade has changed in 25 years. “It’s a rat race where everybody is pushing each other to the limit.”
On managing transfers:
“In a transfer you’re dealing with three parties: two clubs and the player. Each party is looking for the best deal for themselves. In a club there can be several people involved, which makes it even more difficult. To align all those wishes, that’s a helluva job.”
On advising clubs:
“We guide our talents throughout the year and discuss their plans for the next season. But we are also hired by clubs to help them renovate their squads. We speak with clubs all the time and know the market. We know more than an individual club knows and that’s where we can help them.”
On how much the industry has changed:
“It has become a rat race where everybody is pushing each other to the limit. It’s addictive to be part of it. And every player wants to play that game.”
On the influence of entourages:
“Twenty years ago, there was only the player to deal with. Nowadays, the player is surrounded by family and friends who all have a say in the matter. The football industry is a sexy and appealing business, more and more people want to be part of it.”
On his most memorable deal:
“I’ve done many deals but the Robin van Persie transfer from Arsenal to Manchester United really stands out. It was a deal between two clubs who back then didn’t want to deal with each other. To manage that and to get that done was something that I’m really proud of.